NHL analyst reveals who the true future No. 1 goalie is for the Penguins
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NHL analyst Jacob Punturi revealed that, despite there being a logjam in the Penguins' crease at the moment, Sergei Murashov clearly appears to be the most skilled.
Goaltender Sergei Murashov etched his name into Penguins history with a 21-save shutout against the Nashville Predators, making him just the second goaltender in Penguins history to pick up a shutout in their first win in the NHL. The other goaltender to accomplish this is Jeff Zatkoff.
This performance also served to make one thing very clear to those within the organization wondering about the number one position: Murashov is indeed the future of this role.
What the needs are that Sergei Murashov meets for the Penguins
Only 21 years old, he definitely meets both long-term and short-term needs within this franchise, according to NHL analyst Jacob Punturi.
"Even with all of the talent at the position, Murashov stands head and shoulders above as the number one of the future. He is the most talented of the options and has the highest potential as well."
- Jacob Punturi
- Jacob Punturi
This being Murashov's second season playing hockey in North America, he has already moved up rather quickly within the league.
Last season, he arrived at 20 years old and began splitting time between the AHL and ECHL, proving to be exceptional at both. The ECHL saw him post a 17-7-1 mark with a 2.40 goals-against average and .922 save percentage in 26 starts.
The numbers he racked up within the AHL weren't much different, finishing 12-3-1 with 2.64 GAA and .913 save percentage in 16 appearances. This season, he began 5-2 with one shutout within his first seven starts in the AHL before being called up.
The Penguins' goaltender prospect pool is quite crowded at present. Although Tristan Jarry is injured, he and 24-year-old Arturs Silovs were splitting starts equally, while 23-year-old prospect Joel Blomqvist returned to action after being sidelined due to injuries.
Yet, it is Murashov who has differentiated himself among other goaltender prospects due to his potential.
Why Sergei Murashov is so good
Athleticism is evident in this player. At 6-2, he can skate sideways effortlessly, maintains strong control over his lower body, and possesses a blazing-fast glove on his right side to negate high-danger opportunities.
This is only the beginning when it comes to shutouts from Murashov. The Penguins seem to have found their long-term goaltender in Murashov, one who is ready to offer many more wins and memories.
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