Vezina Finalists: Sorokin, Swayman, Vasilevskiy Battle
Ilya Sorokin, Jeremy Swayman, and Andrei Vasilevskiy are the 2023 Vezina Trophy finalists, setting up a compelling debate for the NHL's top goaltender.
Sorokin, Swayman, Vasilevskiy finalists for Vezina…
The National Hockey League has unveiled its three finalists for the prestigious Vezina Trophy, awarded annually to the league’s best goaltender: Ilya Sorokin of the New York Islanders, Jeremy Swayman of the Boston Bruins, and Andrei Vasilevskiy of the Tampa Bay Lightning. This trio represents a fascinating cross-section of goaltending excellence, blending breakout performances with sustained elite-level play.
Ilya Sorokin’s nomination solidifies his status as a bonafide superstar. For the Islanders, Sorokin was often the difference-maker, consistently bailing out a team that, at times, struggled offensively. His statistical profile is nothing short of elite: a 2.34 goals-against average (GAA) and a .924 save percentage (SV%) over 62 starts. These numbers placed him among the leagues elite, especially considering the defensive load he often carried. Sorokin’s ability to steal games single-handedly, evidenced by his league-leading six shutouts, was crucial for the Islanders’ playoff push.
Jeremy Swayman, while sharing the net in Boston’s record-breaking season, proved himself an indispensable part of their historic success. Operating in a tandem with Linus Ullmark, Swayman posted a remarkable 2.27 GAA and a .920 SV% in his 37 appearances. What truly stands out for Swayman is his incredible consistency and composure under pressure. His contributions were vital to the Bruins’ unparalleled regular season, showcasing a maturity beyond his years and an ability to make key saves in high-leverage situations, making him a very deservant candidate.
Andrei Vasilevskiy, the perennial Vezina contender and former winner, once again demonstrated why he is arguably the league’s best big-game netminder. Despite facing a higher volume of shots than his counterparts due to a somewhat less defensively robust Lightning team compared to previous seasons, Vasilevskiy still recorded a 2.65 GAA and a .915 SV% in 60 starts. His advanced metrics, particularly in high-danger save percentage, often reveal a goaltender who performs exceptionally when it matters most, and his track record of postseason heroics speaks volumes about his unflappable nature and immense skill.
A Tough Choice for GMs
The General Managers tasked with voting for the Vezina Trophy face an unenviable decision. Sorokin represents the workhorse who elevated his team. Swayman embodies efficiency and consistency within a dominant system. Vasilevskiy is the established elite, proving he can still perform at an incredible level even as his team evolves. Each has a strong case, offering a compelling narrative that goes beyond simple statistics, showcasing their value and impact on their respective clubs throughout what was a challenging and highly competitive season for all involved. The winner will undoubtedly be a deserving recipient, reflecting the diverse pathways to goaltending greatness in the modern NHL.
