Nabokov Up for the Vezina

2007 / 2008 NHL Vezina Trophy Finalists

With all of the playoff action going on, the news about Evgeni Nabokov's nomination for the Vezina was sort of lost. A lot has been said about Nabby's strong play throughout the year and if you're a Sharks fan, I don't need to convince you that Number 20 should take the post-season award. However, with that said, let's take a look at all three of the finalists.

Martin Brodeur: The perennial All-star goalie seems to always be in the running for the Vezina. In fact, this is his 8th finalist nomination for the award. Personally, I think he should bow out of this one. Hey Marty...you've already won the Vezina three times...give someone else a chance.

Record: 44-27-6
Goals Against Average: 2.17
Save Percentage: .920 save percentage
Shutouts: 4
Miscellaneous: 1st in minutes played, 2nd in victories, and 5th in GAA.

Henrik Lundqvist: This is the 3rd consecutive season that the 26 year old Swedish goaltender has been nominated for the Vezina. Unfortunately for him, he has yet to win the post-season award. Consequently, I worry that Hank may be due. However, he's young...so he has time to win it down the road. I say that Nabby should get it this year...let's hope that the GMs of the NHL follow my train of thought.

Record: 37-24-10
Goals Against Average: 2.23
Save Percentage: .912 save percentage
Shutouts: 10
Miscellaneous: 1st in shutouts, 5th in minutes played, and 6th in GAA.

Evgeni Nabokov: I will do my best to be objective when describing Nabby's year, but first let me say that he is awesome and deserves to win it. With that out of the way, all one has to do is to look at the numbers and they will agree. If the numbers aren't enough, then just look at what he has meant to his team. Early in the year, San Jose struggled, but Evgeni's strong performance kept the Sharks competitive. Moreover, his consistent play created an environment where the rest of the team could find their games without worrying about the team's goaltending. Bottomline, Nabby deserves the Vezina. Besides, it will go well with his Calder Trophy from 2001.

Record: 46-21-8
Goals Against Average: 2.14
Save Percentage: .910 save percentage
Shutouts: 6
Miscellaneous: 1st in victories, 2nd in minutes played, 3rd in shutouts, and 3rd in GAA.

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