Apr 26, 2015; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators fans cheer during the third period against Montreal Canadiens in the game six of the first round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports
Jack Leiper, Editor – SenShot
Tough to see him go. Certainly, the return makes it easier to see him gone. I am totally thrilled that B. Murray was able to get that first rounder back. Perhaps it is a bit of an over-payment for Lehner, but it’s justifiable for T. Murray to make.
Lehner is a good goaltender. Average in sv% over the past few seasons, but performed well in a backup role. He’s been noted to have a short temper which certainly played a factor into his move. He’ll need to grow up, but that should come with more time in the NHL and maturity.
There have been rough stretches for sure. Lehner had a few games where he let in more than a few weak ones and shots that were considered easy to save. That said, he’s also had some incredible high points. He’s managed to steal games in the past, and one particular stretch in late 2013 led to a NHL 1st star of the week nod. It was a controversial move when MacLean went back to Anderson after that stretch.
He holds a high ceiling. His dad is Henrik Lundqvist’s goaltending coach, so he’s always had some of the best technical players around him. Is he ready for a starting role? Probably not. He’s 23 and goaltenders don’t peak until around 27-30. However, that makes him a great fit on a rebuilding Buffalo team.
Next: Jacob Strozyk, Editor - SabreNoise