Kaapo Kahkonen Is Rounding Into Form
Despite the San Jose Sharks' struggles this season, goaltending has not been an issue.
Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports - Kaapo Kahkonen Is Rounding Into FormDespite the San Jose Sharks' struggles this season, goaltending has not been an issue.
Mackenzie Blackwood has been stellar from start to finish this season, but don't look now. Kaapo Kahkonen is playing well.
Kahkonen has won four of his last five starts, all against quality opponents. His two standout wins this season came against the Vancouver Canucks and the New Jersey Devils.
After a strong preseason, Kahkonen was rewarded with the opening night start. Although Blackwood got off to a relatively better start, Kahkonen's recent performance has put him back in the conversation for more starts.
"He played really well, and we've talked about him from the minute camp started," Sharks coach David Quinn said after the Devils game. "He's elevated his game. He's a whole different player this year. He's been really good at practices, and we're really happy for him."
Kahkonen stopped 44 shots en route to the Sharks' first road win.
Against the New York Islanders, Kahkonen gave up four goals but made some huge saves to give his team a chance.
He stopped 35 shots, and his team rewarded them with an incredible comeback win. Tomas Hertl scored a hat trick, and William Eklund finished the OT winner.
"He was great. He made big saves when we needed them," Kevin Labanc said after the Islanders game. "He did a great job and kept us in it the whole way."
Quinn has started to alternate starts for Blackwood and Kahkonen after showing some favor to Blackwood. Through two games in December, Kahkonen has a .919 save %. He has made 79 saves.
Based on the recent rotation of goalies, Kahkonen should get the start against the Vegas Golden Knights on Sunday.
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