The Olympics are a few months away, and with the latest injury to Jonathan Quick, I can't help but wonder if Ryan Miller will have an opportunity to earn a starting position on Team USA.
We all remember how well he played in the last Olympics. He allowed eight goals in six games (a 1.45 GAA). But since then, Miller hasn't played the same way. His stats are down, his team (Sabres) have become worse, and Quick seemed to be the favorite to win the starting job.
Things have changed, though. Quick's injury can play a big part of David Poile decision making process. Quick is expected to return and be healthy before the Olympics, but he hasn't been playing his best, either.
The other candidates that could possibly earn the job are Cory Schneider (from Syracuse, NY), Jimmy Howard and Ben Bishop.
Here's a look at how they've done this season so far:
Bishop has some great numbers and right now he is the best USA goaltender. Schneider has great numbers as well, but has only played 10 games. Still, if he can keep those numbers going, he could be considered as well.
How does Poile choose a starting goaltender from this list?
Coming into the year, I thought that Quick would win the job and would be the best option for Team USA. Quick's has a nice GAA, but isn't facing as many shots. Miller is just the opposite. Both goaltender have played better in the past, but remain strong options.
Besides them, you can't overlook Ben Bishop, who has strong stats all around. The 27-year-old has been playing the best hockey of his career.
Is the previous play of Ryan Miller in the Olympics enough to help him earn the job again? Or does Quick recover and get it instead? Or does Bishop beat both of them?
At this point, I have to give it to Bishop or Miller. I can't decide yet. Bishop is playing solid all around and he is the best statistical goaltender. Miller has the experience and has been playing well for the worst team in the league, and he is facing 35-40+ shots a night. It's a tough call right now.
As always, thank you for reading!
