The Utah Mammoth have announced that they have signed backup goalie Vitek Vanecek to a one-year $1.5 million contract.
Vanecek, 29, is coming off a year where he won the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers. He started the year with the San Jose Sharks and then was dealt to the Panthers at the deadline to be their backup goalie. He had a 5-14-4 record in 25 games, along with a 3.62 GAA and a .884 SV%. It wasn’t the season he hoped for personally, but he still earned a ring and gained valuable playoff experience, even in a secondary role.
After being drafted by the Washington Capitals in the 2014 round, he went on to play for the New Jersey Devils, Sharks, and Panthers. Unfortunately, he hasn't had the career that he would have hoped. However, now he gets to join a Utah team that is going to be pushing for a playoff spot. That opportunity, combined with a more structured defensive system, could give him a better chance to bounce back.
GM Bill Armstrong brought Vanecek in as a backup to fellow Czechia native Karel Vejmelka until they get further clarification on the status of Connor Ingram. Until we all know more, the Mammoth will be going with the two Czechia goaltenders.
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