With Ilya Samsonov officially taking over as the full-time starting goalie and Henrik Lunqvist opting out because of a heart condition, the battle for the backup for the Washington Capitals ensues before the season begins. With three candidates, Vitek Vanecek, Pheonix Copley, and Craig Anderson, all have a chance for a play at the backup role. Yes, there is also the taxi squad that gives the Capitals more considerable depth, but either way, a battle will occur. Let's take a look at some those names listed above.
Vitek Vanecek
Vanecek is highly praised in the organization and the hope is that he becomes a mainstay backing up Samsonov. Vanecek recorded a 2.26 GAA and a .917 save percentage in 31 games with the Hershey Bears last season. He's young and hoping to showcase himself in the NHL. While he has little experience (zero in the regular season), the Capitals hope he develops into a quality backup and great depth.
Pheonix Copley
Now Copley identifies more as a regular backup netminder in the NHL, but is also a quality one. He has experience having played 29 games for the Capitals and St. Louis Blues as well as a 2.98 GAA and .905 save percentage, so Copley has the edge there over Vanecek. He could benefit getting extra playing time in Hershey, but absolutely deserves a chance to beat out the other two for the backup role.
Craig Anderson
The most experienced of the three listed here as he was the long-time starting goalie for the Ottawa Senators up until last season. With 648 games to his name, his career GAA and save percentage are 2.84 and .913 respectively, but he is 39 and his skills are declining. His experience should be a boost and also help mentor Samsonov. While his skills are declining, he should still make for an excellent backup.
Most Likely To Be Backup: Vanecek. While Anderson and Copley are worthy contenders, it just seems like the sense of the feel of the organization is that Vanecek is going to be the backup. They are really high on him and it would be beneficial for him to develop at the highest level. Luckily one of these who doesn't win the backup role will be placed on the taxi squad.
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