i think he’s the best goalie in the nhl, but obviously different goalies can be better in different seasons. vasi is just so consistent with his numbers, and so incredible positionally and athletically. nobody has what he has imo. sorokin may be the better goalie this season or last year in shesterkin, but all around with size and athletic ability. vasi all the way
Yup, fudementally he is almost on a Carey Price level and he has a couple more inches, plays for a better defensive team and is possibly more flexible. Insane. I also want to add, if you watch and compare Jack Campbell's mechanics to Vasi's its night and day.
Didn’t even realize what Vasy did with his stick on that breakaway from compher. As an avs fan he was the only reason I was worried they weren’t gonna win the cup last year. Easily one of the best goalies to play the game.
Since 2017-18 him and hellebuyck have been the best goalies in the league easily. Vasy has better accolades and his playoff stats are insane, but analytically speaking, for the regular season alone Connor has been right up there with him if not better.
@@blap5630 ... and ''hellebuyck'', ''if not better''?!. Sure... AND mrazek... AND alien... AND husso... AND bobrovskij too. It is lol, if NOT loliSSIMO... There's ONLY ONE goalie of Vasilevsky's grade in entire NHL over the past 5-6 years. It IS Vasilevskiy himself only. You gotta be blind or brainless not being able TO SEE this. Therefore, this video is made about Vasilevsky and about no one else.. And I'm not even fаn of his or Tampa...
@@blap5630 Yeah, I agree. Hellebuyck is another top tier goaltender. Hopefully, the Jets can make a good run in the postseason to showcase Hellebuyck's skill. Shesterkin is another on the list. Last season was insane for him, he just needs to do it again to show he can consistently play at that level.
We had some dark times, pre-Bishop, though. Never forget the days of Marc Denis, Mike Smith (before he was good), John Graham, Johan Holmqvist, Kari Ramo (before he was good), Sean Burke, Anders Lindback, Mike McKenna, Antero Nittimaki, and so many more. We've been blessed in net since like 2014, for sure, but the road here was long and painful.
Not mentioned but relevant is his durability. He's had a monster workload since he took the crease in Tampa and has barely skipped a beat. The man is just different.
@@scottbaron121 He actually was injured during the 2018-19 season for a few weeks. It's also funny because that's the season they won the president trophy, but every other season he was completely healthy they didn't win it.
Gonna be honest, things in the NHL would look vastly different if Bish was able to stay consistently healthy. Maybe if he doesn't have a torn groin in the Finals the Bolts deal Vasy elsewhere. It's an overlooked part of Vasy's career that he's stayed so consistently healthy.
@vvaake Such an underrated part of playing goal. It's like an MLB pitcher in that it's such a high impact role that's so hard to develop, so there's tons of pressure to play the same guy the whole game every game, but also involving extreme movement that the human body wasn't built for.
I love my goalie. Watching him go from being Bishops back up to our starter has a been a hell of ride. By the time Vasy retires his highlight reel will be filled with amazing saves. Not that I need other team fans to confirm what I already know, but it’s nice seeing Vasy get the recognition he deserves.
For me being a lightning fan, I love vasilevskiy so much. The guy is unstoppable... the only weakness he has is relentless shooters when he's double teamed with 4 guys around him
You see other goalies get really hot but Vassy has done it at a high level for a long while now. Taking consistency into consideration he's the best on the planet.
Vasy is the best goalie of his generation. Bar none. Full stop. One of the things about him that wasn't mentioned is that he has the memory of a gnat when it comes to getting scored on. He'll remember your moves, the approach, how you scored, but the goal simply vanishes in his mind. You virtually never seem him get rattled, no matter what the score is. That's extremely tough to do as a goalie.
Im a Avs fan and that Stick save was incredible. Vas is definitely hands down the most dominating Goalkeeper in all of Hockey at this moment. i agree with you on him being the best Goaltender in the NHL
That's what I've been thinking as well. I think that Sergachev is going to overtake Hedman soon for the better defenceman of the 2...Hedman is starting to decline and I HATE IT. I LOVE HEDMAN.
@@vicckyyy2001 Maybe I haven't been watching enough, but I thought Hedman has been just fine. Sure, the production has dipped just a bit, but the times I watched he was fairly sound defensively in the neutral and defensive zone. I noticed he hasn't taken as many shots this season, as well as nearly 3% decrease in shot percentage. With that being said, he is on pace for almost 60 points through an 82 game season. I would place the blame on the lack of depth since losing McDonagh, as they're relying on Bogo and Fleury to play a bit more than they probably should. Perbix and Cole have been fairly good, and despite a statistically rough season for Cernak, he will come back around.
@@bigdaddyd6592 Okay I like when someone replies and actually educates me, so thanks this helped a lot! I didn't take into account that McDonagh wasn't with the team anymore, That's great data! Thanks!
I'm a bolts fan so I'm slightly biased but objective he is the best goalie in the league. I was a goalie growing up. I've been a bolts fan since the day we got a team and I've been watching hockey since about 2 years before we got the team. Goalies have always been my favorite players. I'd say there isn't a goalie that's ever been as good as he is. Merty Brodeur is probably my fave goalie of all time but no one is as good as vasy
I would love to see a break down of William Nylanders game even if its a short one as I feel like he is often miss understood as it appears like he is lazy when it seems like hes just far more efficient with his skating
@@doolarena I'm sorry you are but hurt about what exactly? I just asked if he could make a video about Nylander, a player I found very good the last time my Capitals played the Leafs and a lot of people dog on for being lazy Also this comment has absolutely nothing to do with the video I just wasn't sure where to make a request like that.
I saw him back a Toronto Tampa Game back in 2015 this was when Bishop was still in net for Tampa But Vazy was in goal and I told my friend that this goalie is going to be a Stud for Tampa in the future
That's interesting. Here in Tampa, there was a REAL discussion/argument when it came time to re-sign Bish: Do you let him go and take the gamble on Vasy...or trade Vasy? Yzerman made the ight call on that one.
100% Vasy is the reason the Boltz are as good as they are. They have plenty of strong pieces and HOF caliber players in the lineup. But no way would they be the team they are without big Cat in goal!
Awesome coverage of one of the best goalies this era, if not the best. Ranger fanboys will say Igor is better (they chanted that in our own arena), but no one is better then Vasy when the game is on the line in the playoffs. They should wait to hand out Vezina until after the playoffs.
I'm a devils fan and i was hoping he fell to us that year in the draft so we would take him since Marty was about done with his career and he could be our next franchise tendy. Knew he was a stud by his stats and highlights before he even entered the NHL, such a talented player
What’s crazy is how almost all goalies give up the vast majority of their goals on screens, deflections, odd-man/breakaway, and bang-bang perfect passing. These guys are all incredible and Vasi is elite among them.
I think Andrei is the best goalie because of his consistency. He’s constantly a top 3 performing goalie every year for the last like 5-6 season. That is insane.
@@freder1c that absolutely plays a big factor. But to that I say: Put Vasy on a team on the edge of playoffs and all of a sudden they’re middle of the pack playoff caliber.
@@freder1c He's the best goalie despite his team's constant turnovers and lackluster defense. There were games where the post interview was his team members apologizing to him even though they won the game (they won the game because of Big Cat)
Watching how Vasy plays with his stick in close and on the post totally changed how I play in those situations. Definitely for the better, but got to be quick sealing the five hole. So much better down low now tho.
Wow! I've never thought of that or seen that. When he blocked the backhand opportunity by positioning his stick in the way. How innovative, how brilliant!
As a Wings fan seeing this in my recommendations after watching the Wings vs Bolts game tonight is hilarious. It's so true. Dude literally won the game by himself. In truth the way the Wings carried the play for 90% of the game, having the shots at like 45-17. With any other tendy in net, that game most likely ends 5-2 Wings. Guy is just unreal.
Love the breakdown and yes, I think Vasy is THE BEST goalie in the NHL. Currently, this season Ullmark is the best goalie imo (at least for now), but overall, Vasy is the best. Just so consistent and one you would rely on in a game 7.
I think he's the best goalie in the world because he's the most consistently good tendie in the league. Other goalies like Hellebuyck, Saros, and Shesterkin can be brilliant, but they lack consistency year after year.
When Tampa played the Leafs in their latest series, and it was in OT, there was a camera pan on Campbells face going into OT and then on Vasilevskiy and I immediately knew that the Leafs had lost. There was so much focus on Vasilevskiy's face, while Campbell looked shook. He just looked like he wanted it more.
Im a Habs fan and seeing how he got hot as you said at 3:34 in the playoffs against Montreal we really couldnt generate anything and we wouldnt take good opportunities just because we knew he would probably save it anyway and took us in 5
He honestly reminds me of another player who wore his number in the past, Eric Lindros. He's the Eric Lindros of the net. Great size, great athleticism... and great hockey IQ. The IQ is what sets him apart from everyone else, and his skills just supplement him. If he stays healthy, he'll be an all time great for sure. The best ones always make the game look easy, and he's one of them.
Probably just exhaustion. They went to 3 Stanley Cup finals in a row. All those extra games played really take a toll on you. Colorado also happened to be red hot last year as well. Really hoped Tampa could 3peat.
Brayden Point got injured in game 7 against Toronto and didn't play again during the playoffs. That was a huge blow. Combine that with being exhausted, and the Avs playing great, finally did them in.
Point injured. He was the leading scorer and most clutch player during the two previous winning runs. Most people don't see a lot of Lightning games and don't even remember him being injured. Take Mckinnon away from Colorado and see how that would have turned out. I think Point is the most underrated player in the NHL right now.
As a Carolina fan. Tampa Bay is always going to be a scary team come playoff time but Vasy is the real reason they always have a chance and have gone to three straight Stanley Cup Finals. Tampa Bay is the beast of the east and no one has shown they can outlast them in the playoffs in the eastern conference thanks to the stellar goaltending of Vasy.
I've been saying it for almost two years now. When it's all said and done he'll be the greatest goalie to ever do it and it wont even be close. No one has ever had this package of speed, athleticism, strength, and hockey IQ, haven't even mentioned the big game gene yet. Not even close to a lightning fan but game recognizes game and you cant deny he's head and shoulders above everyone else.
@@conorwreckoner thank you sir. The avs are def hitting different this year. We need Makar back this second. Also need everyone back really. I’ll gladly take Manson over EJ. Good timing there… and nieto being back is great too! Traded unproductive players. And malgin has been looking good too. Last year is seemed we could go down 2 or 3 goals and not sweat about it. I’ll have to look at stats but I think we were way over 500 even when down 2 goals going into 3rd of something silly. Not so much this year. Gotta find some magic real soon if we are to compete with the top teams this year. Gonna need some good luck
Dudes already a hall of famer with the records he’s set.. not to mention a couple cups already. .And he’s in his prime. Few more years theres no telling what else the big cat will accomplish. And he’s done all this in the modern day style of play with freaks like mcdavid and mackinnon pushing the boundries of skills and shooting.. and modern stick technology that allows these players to blast rockets with a flick of their wrists. Yeah Vasy is one of the greatest of all time and may be on his way to being the tendy goat.
I'm biased as a Lightning fan...but when the playoffs roll around, I always say: We have a Vasy...and you don't. He may not win the Vezina every year because (of course) individual goalies can have a "career year". That said...I wouldn't take ANY other goalie over him when it's crunch time. Not a single one.
In all fairness the average of an NHL goalie is 6'3 - 6'4 so the height isnt a particularly significant advantage. I will say though his ability to wear the big equipment (not specific to him, Murray on the Leafs also wears the slightly larger gear) while still being athletic and buoyant. You see those qualities typically in the more stream line gear guys who love that free movement, but he still is able to do that while still looking like a gigantic beast.
I love Vasilevskiy. I'm a sucker for goalies, I'm not a Tampa fan, but whenever Vasi plays I guarantee I'm wathcing the game. I just love great goaltending.
I think what’s most impressive are his playoff performances. His ability to win when it matters is what is going to land him in the hall of fame. That being said, its kinda ironic that the leafs of all teams broke his streak and managed to put two pucks past him in an elimination game, even if one was disallowed.
He is amazing, but it’s hard to tell who’s the best. Ullmark is having a record season, Hellebuyck is doing what he always does, dominate, Shesterkin had the 3rd best save percentage of all time last year, and vasy is just so consistent. Not to mention a couple younger stars like Ottenger, and top prospects like Wallstedt and Wolf. The future of goaltending in the NHL is bright
@@scottbaron121 I think Shesterkin needs just a motivation to compete with Vasy. The playoffs will probably do that. Goaltending this year is going to be crazy
His nickname should be Voodoo because he pulls off some black magic in the net. Like that behind the back save a few years ago. Man reminds me of Hasek.
He could retire right now & easily make the Hall of Fame. He’ll be a top 3-5 keeper when it’s all said & done, if he’s not already in that discussion. Leading the league in wins 5 seasons in a row, not too far off from 6 consecutive seasons is crazy, and he’s proving he gives the Lightning defence half its value rather than the other way around. Playoff Vasy reminds me of Hasek, virtually unbeatable, and it’s like the game is over before it even started. It’s amazing how much he & the lightning made everyone forget about 2018-19, ironically his Vezina winning campaign. I just can’t help but think how much of a shame it’ll be that we’re gonna be robbed of witnessing arguably the greatest goaltending trio of all Time in Vasy, Shesterkin & Sorokin because of the NHL’s feud with the international game & Russia’s sanctions. i personally think Russia’s goaltending, led by Vasy could win Russia a gold medal or World Cup of Hockey.
maybe this is an unpopular opinion but I would say the Helle is right up there with Vasi on how he impacts a game. Maybe Im crazy and I have this opinion because I watch more Jets games.
I agree Helle is right up there. Tampa has had a great team for a while. That team looks good on paper and actually performs on ice. Jets look good on paper but once things get on ice..... I don't know which medication, did the Jets take today? What is current moon phases, maybe planetary alignment plays a factor. Did the roads to the arena ice? Did a butterfly in the Amazon beat its wings. Not sure anyone will ever figure out the Jets team and a solution to consistent play. Hard to look consistent as a goalie, when as the author of the video says complete defensive system breakdowns. Helle has been "gifted" many seasons with exactly that.
He's easily the best goalie in the league. That is why I love Aho's game winner against him in the shootout this season. It's easily a plus on Aho not a negative on Andrei.
He’s the reason why Tampa will always be a contender. Obviously they have a great lineup but having Vasy back there will keep them in any playoff game so they’ll always be dangerous
I totally thought my Avs were going to win that one. As you say, there shots were quality and on a lesser goaltender would have zipped by him. I think Vasy has a special place in his mind for the Avs now, but aside from that, he does it night after night.
It isn't even close. He is the best goalie in the league in a league that has gone more and more towards offense every year. I could only imagine what he would have been if it was the old days when you could kills guys and it wasn't as face paced or high scoring because of dominant forwards.
Tuesday February 14th 2023, St Louis Blues 6, Panthers 2... But how empty were the stand in Sunrise again? Last I watched a game when they played the Lightning IN Sunrise, I heard "Let's go Lightning" on the live broadcast...
the fact that the league lets him wear a chest protector 3 sizes too big is absurd. Also, he is on maybe the best team of all time so lets slow down on the him being the best comments. He has no holes between his arms and body. Thats why there is nothing to shoot at.
🎯 Michelin man uses his ridiculously oversized chest protector as a tool to block and absorb pucks, not for protection. You’d think he’s a massive guy, but he’s actually really skinny. Great goalie, but wonder how’d he be with proper fitting gear and jersey.
I'm confused. So you're basically saying he's cheating when he isn't. If not then you're saying that other goalies are actively choosing to wear smaller equipment than they can legally? Seems weird.
i think he’s the best goalie in the nhl, but obviously different goalies can be better in different seasons. vasi is just so consistent with his numbers, and so incredible positionally and athletically. nobody has what he has imo. sorokin may be the better goalie this season or last year in shesterkin, but all around with size and athletic ability. vasi all the way
Yup, fudementally he is almost on a Carey Price level and he has a couple more inches, plays for a better defensive team and is possibly more flexible. Insane. I also want to add, if you watch and compare Jack Campbell's mechanics to Vasi's its night and day.
Makes it look easy … like Price
@@jamesonpearson123. Carey Price? Vasy is on another level. All respect to price. The numbers tell the tale.
@@chelious1973 nah sorry
@@jamesonpearson123 . Exactly. Glad we agree. Vasy is on another level. 👍
The type of saves vasy makes, plus his reflexes in the crease makes us tendys shed a tear of admiration
Didn’t even realize what Vasy did with his stick on that breakaway from compher. As an avs fan he was the only reason I was worried they weren’t gonna win the cup last year. Easily one of the best goalies to play the game.
Wish we had manson for those two tampa games
He is the best to play the game. Not one of them.
@@chelious1973 yeah he is was top 5 in vezina voting like 5 years in a row. no goalie is even close to that like last 15 years.
@@pritok6 . I know. Amazing.
@@kazzipolbus4788 wish we had Point for the finals.
Vasys already a Hall of Fame lock and hes not even 30 yet, that's unreal. Guys headed for the Pantheon of Elite Goalies to ever do it
In absolute terms i think it’s hard to argue anyone was better
@@User-wt9jk Hasek
this guy has nearly martin brodeur's level
Vasy is crazy. He's definitely the best and most consistent goaltender in the NHL. Hands down.
Since 2017-18 him and hellebuyck have been the best goalies in the league easily. Vasy has better accolades and his playoff stats are insane, but analytically speaking, for the regular season alone Connor has been right up there with him if not better.
@@blap5630 ... and ''hellebuyck'', ''if not better''?!. Sure... AND mrazek... AND alien... AND husso... AND bobrovskij too.
It is lol, if NOT loliSSIMO... There's ONLY ONE goalie of Vasilevsky's grade in entire NHL over the past 5-6 years. It IS Vasilevskiy himself only. You gotta be blind or brainless not being able TO SEE this. Therefore, this video is made about Vasilevsky and about no one else.. And I'm not even fаn of his or Tampa...
@@blap5630 Yeah, I agree. Hellebuyck is another top tier goaltender. Hopefully, the Jets can make a good run in the postseason to showcase Hellebuyck's skill. Shesterkin is another on the list. Last season was insane for him, he just needs to do it again to show he can consistently play at that level.
As a Lightning fan I feel so spoiled to immediately go from Ben Bishop, who was great, to this legend.
We had some dark times, pre-Bishop, though. Never forget the days of Marc Denis, Mike Smith (before he was good), John Graham, Johan Holmqvist, Kari Ramo (before he was good), Sean Burke, Anders Lindback, Mike McKenna, Antero Nittimaki, and so many more. We've been blessed in net since like 2014, for sure, but the road here was long and painful.
@@Kriskraze63 I had seasons tickets during those dark times. Denis was one of the worst goalies we ever had
Not mentioned but relevant is his durability. He's had a monster workload since he took the crease in Tampa and has barely skipped a beat. The man is just different.
That's an excellent point. The guy just doesn't get injured. He's a f-ing machine.
Big cat
@@scottbaron121 He actually was injured during the 2018-19 season for a few weeks. It's also funny because that's the season they won the president trophy, but every other season he was completely healthy they didn't win it.
Gonna be honest, things in the NHL would look vastly different if Bish was able to stay consistently healthy. Maybe if he doesn't have a torn groin in the Finals the Bolts deal Vasy elsewhere. It's an overlooked part of Vasy's career that he's stayed so consistently healthy.
@vvaake Such an underrated part of playing goal. It's like an MLB pitcher in that it's such a high impact role that's so hard to develop, so there's tons of pressure to play the same guy the whole game every game, but also involving extreme movement that the human body wasn't built for.
I love my goalie. Watching him go from being Bishops back up to our starter has a been a hell of ride. By the time Vasy retires his highlight reel will be filled with amazing saves. Not that I need other team fans to confirm what I already know, but it’s nice seeing Vasy get the recognition he deserves.
For me being a lightning fan, I love vasilevskiy so much. The guy is unstoppable... the only weakness he has is relentless shooters when he's double teamed with 4 guys around him
Haha to be fair that's every goalies weakness... except maybe Hasek
Love this video. There’s not a lot of goalie love in the RUclips world so great job covering the games best
As a panthers fan i can legitimately say he’s the scariest goalie to face. He’ll just shut you down mentally, physically and emotionally
You see other goalies get really hot but Vassy has done it at a high level for a long while now. Taking consistency into consideration he's the best on the planet.
Best in the game
Vasy is the best goalie of his generation. Bar none. Full stop. One of the things about him that wasn't mentioned is that he has the memory of a gnat when it comes to getting scored on. He'll remember your moves, the approach, how you scored, but the goal simply vanishes in his mind. You virtually never seem him get rattled, no matter what the score is. That's extremely tough to do as a goalie.
Im a Avs fan and that Stick save was incredible. Vas is definitely hands down the most dominating Goalkeeper in all of Hockey at this moment. i agree with you on him being the best Goaltender in the NHL
The lightnings defense have has many breakdowns this season so it’s been a little harder on him this year but come playoffs he’s gonna be crazy
That's what I've been thinking as well. I think that Sergachev is going to overtake Hedman soon for the better defenceman of the 2...Hedman is starting to decline and I HATE IT. I LOVE HEDMAN.
@@vicckyyy2001 Maybe I haven't been watching enough, but I thought Hedman has been just fine. Sure, the production has dipped just a bit, but the times I watched he was fairly sound defensively in the neutral and defensive zone. I noticed he hasn't taken as many shots this season, as well as nearly 3% decrease in shot percentage. With that being said, he is on pace for almost 60 points through an 82 game season. I would place the blame on the lack of depth since losing McDonagh, as they're relying on Bogo and Fleury to play a bit more than they probably should. Perbix and Cole have been fairly good, and despite a statistically rough season for Cernak, he will come back around.
@@bigdaddyd6592 Okay I like when someone replies and actually educates me, so thanks this helped a lot! I didn't take into account that McDonagh wasn't with the team anymore, That's great data! Thanks!
The research and detail you put into this video just earned you another subscriber. Keep it up!
I'm a bolts fan so I'm slightly biased but objective he is the best goalie in the league. I was a goalie growing up. I've been a bolts fan since the day we got a team and I've been watching hockey since about 2 years before we got the team. Goalies have always been my favorite players. I'd say there isn't a goalie that's ever been as good as he is. Merty Brodeur is probably my fave goalie of all time but no one is as good as vasy
I would love to see a break down of William Nylanders game even if its a short one as I feel like he is often miss understood as it appears like he is lazy when it seems like hes just far more efficient with his skating
Ohhhh it’s coming
Now I’m intrigued
Typical Leafs fan. A video about the best goalie in the league and they somehow make it about themselves / their team. Like clockwork.
@@doolarena I'm sorry you are but hurt about what exactly? I just asked if he could make a video about Nylander, a player I found very good the last time my Capitals played the Leafs and a lot of people dog on for being lazy
Also this comment has absolutely nothing to do with the video I just wasn't sure where to make a request like that.
As an Islanders fan I have a genuinely difficult time even thinking about Vasy (and Point). Actual PTSD.
I saw him back a Toronto Tampa Game back in 2015 this was when Bishop was still in net for Tampa But Vazy was in goal and I told my friend that this goalie is going to be a Stud for Tampa in the future
That's interesting. Here in Tampa, there was a REAL discussion/argument when it came time to re-sign Bish: Do you let him go and take the gamble on Vasy...or trade Vasy? Yzerman made the ight call on that one.
December 15, 2015. I was at that game too. Tampa won in ot
100% Vasy is the reason the Boltz are as good as they are. They have plenty of strong pieces and HOF caliber players in the lineup. But no way would they be the team they are without big Cat in goal!
Man he is a BEAST
Awesome coverage of one of the best goalies this era, if not the best. Ranger fanboys will say Igor is better (they chanted that in our own arena), but no one is better then Vasy when the game is on the line in the playoffs. They should wait to hand out Vezina until after the playoffs.
Igor is fantastic as well… but for me.. Vasy is still the guy
@@hockeypsychologyIgor got the potential but Vasy has just been so dominate for 6 years. Man isn’t even 30 yet which is nuts
@@daddystamkos5900 Yep, Igor will be great, especially with more playoff experience. But for my money, its Vasy Vasy Vasy....Oi Oi Oi.
I'm a devils fan and i was hoping he fell to us that year in the draft so we would take him since Marty was about done with his career and he could be our next franchise tendy. Knew he was a stud by his stats and highlights before he even entered the NHL, such a talented player
What’s crazy is how almost all goalies give up the vast majority of their goals on screens, deflections, odd-man/breakaway, and bang-bang perfect passing. These guys are all incredible and Vasi is elite among them.
I think Andrei is the best goalie because of his consistency. He’s constantly a top 3 performing goalie every year for the last like 5-6 season. That is insane.
@@freder1c that absolutely plays a big factor. But to that I say: Put Vasy on a team on the edge of playoffs and all of a sudden they’re middle of the pack playoff caliber.
@@freder1c He's the best goalie despite his team's constant turnovers and lackluster defense. There were games where the post interview was his team members apologizing to him even though they won the game (they won the game because of Big Cat)
@@freder1c that's just ignorant.
Finally, lightnings getting some love
Just seeing how his eyes look all game and how his reflexives are just show you how he is always locked in
Do I believe he’s the best goalie in the NHL? He’s the greatest goalie to ever lace skates up.
Watching how Vasy plays with his stick in close and on the post totally changed how I play in those situations. Definitely for the better, but got to be quick sealing the five hole. So much better down low now tho.
Wow! I've never thought of that or seen that. When he blocked the backhand opportunity by positioning his stick in the way. How innovative, how brilliant!
Man I was rooting for the Avs in the cup final and I don’t like the bolts but I have massive respect for Vasi. Phenomenal goalie
Nice break down, especially enjoyed the point about him dropping his stick to the blocker side to entice the shooter to go 5 or glove side. 👍
As a Wings fan seeing this in my recommendations after watching the Wings vs Bolts game tonight is hilarious. It's so true. Dude literally won the game by himself. In truth the way the Wings carried the play for 90% of the game, having the shots at like 45-17. With any other tendy in net, that game most likely ends 5-2 Wings. Guy is just unreal.
That blocker save is one of the greatest saves I've ever seen.
It actually hit the shaft of his stick.
Love the breakdown and yes, I think Vasy is THE BEST goalie in the NHL. Currently, this season Ullmark is the best goalie imo (at least for now), but overall, Vasy is the best. Just so consistent and one you would rely on in a game 7.
I think he's the best goalie in the world because he's the most consistently good tendie in the league. Other goalies like Hellebuyck, Saros, and Shesterkin can be brilliant, but they lack consistency year after year.
Great summary. He’s the best the league has seen for this length of time in this day and age.
It’s a crime he only has one Vezina, he should have 3
I can't believe this video came out before the redwings game last night.
BIG… CAT! That’s says it all for Andrei Vasilevskiy
He is the best. He's been in the last three cup finals and won 2 of them. Might have been all 3 if his team was healthy in last season's final.
100%
When Tampa played the Leafs in their latest series, and it was in OT, there was a camera pan on Campbells face going into OT and then on Vasilevskiy and I immediately knew that the Leafs had lost. There was so much focus on Vasilevskiy's face, while Campbell looked shook. He just looked like he wanted it more.
Im a Habs fan and seeing how he got hot as you said at 3:34 in the playoffs against Montreal we really couldnt generate anything and we wouldnt take good opportunities just because we knew he would probably save it anyway and took us in 5
this is the best video you've put out
He honestly reminds me of another player who wore his number in the past, Eric Lindros. He's the Eric Lindros of the net. Great size, great athleticism... and great hockey IQ. The IQ is what sets him apart from everyone else, and his skills just supplement him. If he stays healthy, he'll be an all time great for sure. The best ones always make the game look easy, and he's one of them.
He's like if Dominik Hasek Johnathan quick and Carey price had a goalie baby
Tampa has the best backend to ever play in the NHL since New Jersey. How Colorado won last year is still a mystery
Probably just exhaustion. They went to 3 Stanley Cup finals in a row. All those extra games played really take a toll on you.
Colorado also happened to be red hot last year as well. Really hoped Tampa could 3peat.
Brayden Point got injured in game 7 against Toronto and didn't play again during the playoffs. That was a huge blow.
Combine that with being exhausted, and the Avs playing great, finally did them in.
Point injured. He was the leading scorer and most clutch player during the two previous winning runs. Most people don't see a lot of Lightning games and don't even remember him being injured. Take Mckinnon away from Colorado and see how that would have turned out. I think Point is the most underrated player in the NHL right now.
@@TheFerg He's underrated for sure. I can't wait to see where his career takes him
Yea Point was the Lightning leading goal scorer the previous two cups they won. Massive blow not having him for the third run.
As an Avs fan Vasi lives rent free in my head lol that guy scares me more than anyone else in the league for sure
As a Carolina fan. Tampa Bay is always going to be a scary team come playoff time but Vasy is the real reason they always have a chance and have gone to three straight Stanley Cup Finals. Tampa Bay is the beast of the east and no one has shown they can outlast them in the playoffs in the eastern conference thanks to the stellar goaltending of Vasy.
#88 is incredible. The reach he has is astounding.
There are a lot of great goalies in the nhl right now, but Vasi is easily the best, most consistent year to year, and most clutch
I've been saying it for almost two years now. When it's all said and done he'll be the greatest goalie to ever do it and it wont even be close. No one has ever had this package of speed, athleticism, strength, and hockey IQ, haven't even mentioned the big game gene yet. Not even close to a lightning fan but game recognizes game and you cant deny he's head and shoulders above everyone else.
vasy is a gem to the nhl, so glad hes on my team instead of against 😂
Vasy is phenomenal! Tampa is blessed to have the Big Cat. He will be one the greatest of all time! Future HOF'er 🙌⚡️⚡️
Truly the most consistency goaltender in the league. Really only blemish on his playoff record is getting swept by the Blue jackets.
Yep. And beating him 7-0 in the finals was so damn fun! He’s a total beast when he’s on point. The goat for sure🔥🔥🔥🔥
Thank god Pointer was out bro and good luck making playoffs this year. See ya for the rematch
@@conorwreckoner thank you sir. The avs are def hitting different this year. We need Makar back this second. Also need everyone back really. I’ll gladly take Manson over EJ. Good timing there… and nieto being back is great too! Traded unproductive players. And malgin has been looking good too. Last year is seemed we could go down 2 or 3 goals and not sweat about it. I’ll have to look at stats but I think we were way over 500 even when down 2 goals going into 3rd of something silly. Not so much this year. Gotta find some magic real soon if we are to compete with the top teams this year. Gonna need some good luck
Dudes already a hall of famer with the records he’s set.. not to mention a couple cups already. .And he’s in his prime. Few more years theres no telling what else the big cat will accomplish. And he’s done all this in the modern day style of play with freaks like mcdavid and mackinnon pushing the boundries of skills and shooting.. and modern stick technology that allows these players to blast rockets with a flick of their wrists. Yeah Vasy is one of the greatest of all time and may be on his way to being the tendy goat.
I'm biased as a Lightning fan...but when the playoffs roll around, I always say: We have a Vasy...and you don't. He may not win the Vezina every year because (of course) individual goalies can have a "career year". That said...I wouldn't take ANY other goalie over him when it's crunch time. Not a single one.
In all fairness the average of an NHL goalie is 6'3 - 6'4 so the height isnt a particularly significant advantage. I will say though his ability to wear the big equipment (not specific to him, Murray on the Leafs also wears the slightly larger gear) while still being athletic and buoyant. You see those qualities typically in the more stream line gear guys who love that free movement, but he still is able to do that while still looking like a gigantic beast.
Gotta love Vasy 💙⚡️💙
Best goalie to ever live if he retired today.
1000% agree with this video. He is the best Goalie I have ever seen. Does he have fluke games? Yes, but Vasi is the GOAT already in my eyes.
Best goalie atm hands down I do think shesterkin is a fairly close second but vasi is unreal
Can you do a video similar to this about sorokin please? Also great video 👍
I love Vasilevskiy. I'm a sucker for goalies, I'm not a Tampa fan, but whenever Vasi plays I guarantee I'm wathcing the game. I just love great goaltending.
Vasi is my favorite goalie too
As a finn Juuse Saros is the guy that makes me a little hockey fanboy when we're talking about goalies
I haven’t been excited to watch a goalie play every game since Tim Thomas until I watched vasilevsky
Tim Thomas was so fun to watch because of his aggressive playstyle, dude barely even used the crease 😂
I think what’s most impressive are his playoff performances. His ability to win when it matters is what is going to land him in the hall of fame.
That being said, its kinda ironic that the leafs of all teams broke his streak and managed to put two pucks past him in an elimination game, even if one was disallowed.
He is amazing, but it’s hard to tell who’s the best. Ullmark is having a record season, Hellebuyck is doing what he always does, dominate, Shesterkin had the 3rd best save percentage of all time last year, and vasy is just so consistent. Not to mention a couple younger stars like Ottenger, and top prospects like Wallstedt and Wolf.
The future of goaltending in the NHL is bright
Shesterkin, Sorokin, Ullmark, Oettinger, and maybe Saros if he was bigger their's a couple goalies that scare me not just Vasi
Ullmark, THIS YEAR. Shesterking...LAST YEAR. Vasy? EVERY YEAR.
@@scottbaron121 I think Shesterkin needs just a motivation to compete with Vasy. The playoffs will probably do that. Goaltending this year is going to be crazy
His nickname should be Voodoo because he pulls off some black magic in the net. Like that behind the back save a few years ago. Man
reminds me of Hasek.
Lightning have a great opportunity to improve their game practicing with this unit
He is the spine of our team
He could retire right now & easily make the Hall of Fame. He’ll be a top 3-5 keeper when it’s all said & done, if he’s not already in that discussion. Leading the league in wins 5 seasons in a row, not too far off from 6 consecutive seasons is crazy, and he’s proving he gives the Lightning defence half its value rather than the other way around. Playoff Vasy reminds me of Hasek, virtually unbeatable, and it’s like the game is over before it even started. It’s amazing how much he & the lightning made everyone forget about 2018-19, ironically his Vezina winning campaign. I just can’t help but think how much of a shame it’ll be that we’re gonna be robbed of witnessing arguably the greatest goaltending trio of all Time in Vasy, Shesterkin & Sorokin because of the NHL’s feud with the international game & Russia’s sanctions. i personally think Russia’s goaltending, led by Vasy could win Russia a gold medal or World Cup of Hockey.
maybe this is an unpopular opinion but I would say the Helle is right up there with Vasi on how he impacts a game. Maybe Im crazy and I have this opinion because I watch more Jets games.
You are crazy and have this opinion because you watch more Jets. I however watch every Lightning game soooo........... :)
I agree Helle is right up there. Tampa has had a great team for a while. That team looks good on paper and actually performs on ice.
Jets look good on paper but once things get on ice..... I don't know which medication, did the Jets take today? What is current moon phases, maybe planetary alignment plays a factor. Did the roads to the arena ice? Did a butterfly in the Amazon beat its wings. Not sure anyone will ever figure out the Jets team and a solution to consistent play.
Hard to look consistent as a goalie, when as the author of the video says complete defensive system breakdowns. Helle has been "gifted" many seasons with exactly that.
Injuries also helped co lose those games not just vask.
Dude is so good he must do a bump before games and during intermissions.
He's easily the best goalie in the league. That is why I love Aho's game winner against him in the shootout this season. It's easily a plus on Aho not a negative on Andrei.
Love the vid but that poke check is on point
He’s the reason why Tampa will always be a contender. Obviously they have a great lineup but having Vasy back there will keep them in any playoff game so they’ll always be dangerous
It’s crazy to think that Vassey was the second fastest goaltender to hit 200 wins behind Ken Dryden
I totally thought my Avs were going to win that one. As you say, there shots were quality and on a lesser goaltender would have zipped by him. I think Vasy has a special place in his mind for the Avs now, but aside from that, he does it night after night.
Remember the Red Wings traded the pick used to select this guy for Kyle Quincey...
As an Avs fan, I can’t disagree. WIth Vasi, if you ain’t screening, you ain’t scoring.
It's Mackinnon, the speed and skill of Mackinnon cannot be stopped
3:36 why does he do that😂
His blocker side has been a big weakness this season as well.
2yrs ago when he caught the puck behind his back
“Ullmark has entered the chat”….
BOS vs TB in ecf would be wild
Andrei is definitely the closest we are getting to the greatest goalie ever
Makar is also a player that changes the game just by his mere presence on the ice
Not like McDavid or Vasy
Erik Karlsson is the one changing the game just by him mere presence on the ice now I’m scared him not that Makar guy
It isn't even close. He is the best goalie in the league in a league that has gone more and more towards offense every year. I could only imagine what he would have been if it was the old days when you could kills guys and it wasn't as face paced or high scoring because of dominant forwards.
vasi and igor are the best goalies I've ever seen
Fantastic player
Luckily Tampa's defense is super solid - defensive laps are rare
This made me actually laugh. Good one!
Hail The Big Cat!
_Vasy, Vasy, Vasy!_
*Oi, Oi, Oi!*
*_Lets Go Bolts!_* ⚡
February 6th, 2023 - Panthers 7 Lightning 1
Stanley Cups:
Lightning:3
Panthers:0
💁
He was feeling guilty for sweeping them when it actually counted in the playoffs.
2022 Stanley cup playoffs - Lightning 4 panthers 0
Tuesday February 14th 2023, St Louis Blues 6, Panthers 2... But how empty were the stand in Sunrise again? Last I watched a game when they played the Lightning IN Sunrise, I heard "Let's go Lightning" on the live broadcast...
This is gonna age poorly.
the fact that the league lets him wear a chest protector 3 sizes too big is absurd. Also, he is on maybe the best team of all time so lets slow down on the him being the best comments. He has no holes between his arms and body. Thats why there is nothing to shoot at.
🎯 Michelin man uses his ridiculously oversized chest protector as a tool to block and absorb pucks, not for protection. You’d think he’s a massive guy, but he’s actually really skinny.
Great goalie, but wonder how’d he be with proper fitting gear and jersey.
Cap
@@chevelle1 cry
@@chevelle1 I'm convinced! He sucks AND he's a cheater!!11!!!
I'm confused. So you're basically saying he's cheating when he isn't. If not then you're saying that other goalies are actively choosing to wear smaller equipment than they can legally? Seems weird.