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NHL: Top 5 Vezina Trophy candidates for 2016

By Dave Stevenson

Dec 11, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Blackhawks goalie Corey Crawford (50) makes a save on Winnipeg Jets center Bryan Little (18) during the third period at the United Center. The Blackhawks won 2-0. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 11, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Blackhawks goalie Corey Crawford (50) makes a save on Winnipeg Jets center Bryan Little (18) during the third period at the United Center. The Blackhawks won 2-0. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Leon Halip-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Leon Halip-USA TODAY Sports /

Petr Mrazek

Mrazek currently leads the NHL in save percentage (as of February 13) with a .933 save percentage in 38 appearances. He has a microscopic GAA of 1.94. It will be quite difficult for him to win it because he doesn’t have the pedigree of the other Vezina Trophy candidates. However, if anyone has the numbers to overcome the three best candidates for the Vezina Trophy, it’s Mrazek.

Mrazek leads all goalies with at least 1,500 even strength minutes played in even strength save percentage with a 94.93 percent save percentage and a 94.87 percent adjusted even strength save percentage. However, each of the goalies above Mrazek have a history of doing what they’re doing this season. Each of the candidates above him are also the starting goalie for a team that is noticeably better than Mrazek’s Red Wings. Don’t count on Mrazek, especially if he can keep his current pace.

Mandatory Credit: Robert Duyos-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Robert Duyos-USA TODAY Sports /

Roberto Luongo

It’s kind of amazing that Luongo, despite his magnificent career, has never won a Vezina Trophy. He has been a finalist three times in his career and he appears to be well on his way to his fourth time as a finalist. Unless the Panthers go on another huge run, it’s sad to say that Luongo will likely be left out again.

Luongo has a 93.82 percent save percentage at even strength this season and an adjusted even strength save percentage of 93.44 percent. The Panthers should win the Atlantic Division. Luongo faces an uphill battle to overcome the two top contenders, but he’s certainly a strong Vezina Trophy candidate.

Next: Holtby versus Crawford

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