The NHL is increasingly adopting three-goalie tandems, with teams like the Buffalo Sabres and Carolina Hurricanes achieving success last season, including a Stanley Cup win for the Hurricanes. Jake Allen of the New Jersey Devils shared insights on managing this setup during a recent interview. He emphasized the importance of clear communication among goalies, coaches, and staff to ensure everyone understands their roles and the benefits of the arrangement. While he acknowledged the challenges of being one of three goalies, Allen believes effective management can lead to improved performance and overall team success.

By the Numbers
  • Both the Sabres and Hurricanes successfully used three-goalie tandems to reach the playoffs last season.
  • The Hurricanes won the Stanley Cup employing this strategy.
State of Play
  • More teams are considering three-goalie tandems for the current NHL season, including the Edmonton Oilers and Montreal Canadiens.
  • Jake Allen's experience highlights the importance of proper management and communication in a three-goalie setup.
What's Next

As more teams explore the three-goalie approach, its effectiveness will be tested over the coming season, potentially influencing roster decisions and team strategies across the league.

Bottom Line

The three-goalie tandem model may become a standard strategy in the NHL, enhancing team resilience and performance if managed properly through effective communication and understanding among all parties involved.