Social media celebrated this past week the trade that brought Hall of Fame goalie Dominik Hasek to the Buffalo Sabres more than 30 years ago. The Sabres have a history of great goaltenders. Two seasons ago, it seemed that Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen may etch his name on that list.
However, last season he took a step back between the pipes. If he has a repeat year, he may lose his starting spot, especially if the Sabres falter early.
He had a winning record two seasons ago (27-22-4) and a save percentage of .910. Last season, though, he had a record of just .500 (24-24-5) and his save percentage dropped to .887. It is true it may not be all his fault as the defense can lay some blame.
That, however, cannot be why he solely struggled last season. Rasmus Dahlin and Alex Tuch lead the group of Buffalo's strong defensive players that help clear out the puck, and it seemed that Luukkonen lacked the consistency he displayed two seasons ago.
Now he will need to improve as the Sabres are looking to be more consistent this season. James Reimer was a veteran who was brought in as a backup last season. He may have finished with a winning record (10-8-2), but the Sabres front office knew they needed more competition.
During the offseason they signed free agent Alex Lyon. He is a veteran who has a winning record and postseason experience as a goalie, which is something the Sabres are definitely lacking. If the Sabres want to get the best of out of Luukkonen, having him compete against Lyon should see if he can return to form from two season ago.
UPL signed an extension before last season, but if he is not consistent and the Sabres struggle he may be a huge trade asset next season. The Sabres have options to use with Lyon as a veteran and the developing Devon Levi.
Levi is a fan favorite and continues his development as either a possible backup or starter. If he takes a huge step forward, he costs less and coupled with him and Lyon could be the answer the Sabres have been searching for.
Luukkonen had five shutouts in his career-best campaign two seasons ago. He earned his extension but now will have to prove why he deserves the starting position between the pipes. If he can lead the Sabres to the postseason, he could join the list of great goalies for the organization behind Hasek and Ryan Miller.