03/03/2026
With just over 20 games remaining for most NHL teams, it's time we started thinking about who is in the running for the 2026 Vezina Trophy awarded to the NHL's top goaltender.
Unfortunately Vejmelka is unlikely to win due to his lower advanced stats. Still, he could lead all goalies in games played this season and that deserves enormous credit. Thompson returns to his Capitals on a high after backing up his country at the Olympics, so watch out for his stock to rise as playoffs near.
Ultimately, at this point it appears Vasilevskiy has all but secured his second Vezina, and how can you not cheer for him. In 2023 Andrei went under the knife for a lumbar disc herniation, and faced an incredibly difficult recovery from the invasive surgery. This came after Vasi led his team to the Stanley Cup Finals three years in a row. The season he returned had some fans worried; he was unlike himself, posting a 2.90 GAA and a .900 save % in 52 regular season starts before his Lightning bowed out in the first round.
Last year should have cemented Vasi’s comeback, but his incredible season was unfortunately overshadowed by Connor Hellebuyck’s dominant, Hart winning campaign. This year is different; other than Sorokin and Thompson, not many challengers remain. Vasilevskiy is dialled!
Who wins the 2026 Vezina?
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