The Calgary Flames have discovered an unexpected secret weapon in backup goaltender Devin Cooley, whose unconventional approach to mental preparation is paying significant dividends on the ice.
The Viral Mantra That Changed Everything
Two weeks ago, Cooley became an internet sensation when he revealed his unique pre-game mantra during a post-game interview: "Nothing matters. Nobody cares. We're all going to die." The philosophical approach immediately captured hockey fans' attention, but this wasn't the first time Cooley's words had gone viral.
"I said it three years ago in San Jose and it went viral then, and this time it blew up again," Cooley explained with amusement. He even noticed comments accusing him of stealing the mantra from his former self when someone wrote, 'This guy stole it from a San Jose player who said it last year.'
Exceptional Performance Backs Up the Philosophy
While Cooley's mantra might sound nihilistic, the results speak for themselves. After what he describes as an "underwhelming training camp," the 28-year-old netminder has been nothing short of spectacular this season.
Through nine appearances, Cooley has posted impressive statistics that belie his 3-2-1 record. The California native boasts a .930 save percentage and a 2.01 goals-against average, with his record largely affected by limited offensive support when he's guarding the crease. Most notably, he's currently riding a three-game winning streak and has delivered strong performances even when entering games in relief of starter Dustin Wolf.
His latest standout performance came on Friday afternoon against the Florida Panthers, where he turned away 37 of 40 shots in the Flames' dramatic 5-3 victory.
Teammate Approval and Unique Approach
Starting goaltender Dustin Wolf has been particularly impressed with Cooley's contributions and infectious personality. "He's been outstanding," Wolf praised. "Every single game he's come in, even in games where I haven't been at my best, he's come in and gave our team a chance to get back in games. Everyone loves him, you can hear him around and he's the most energetic guy in here."
While Wolf appreciates his teammate's approach, he confirmed that the mortality-focused mantra is uniquely Cooley's. "At the same time, we are all going to die at some point," Wolf added with a laugh. "He's not lying."
Cooley was quick to clarify one important point about his now-famous phrase: he doesn't actually live his life by that philosophy. It serves strictly as an on-ice mental tool to maintain perspective and composure during high-pressure situations.
Every NHL goaltender develops their own quirks and routines, but Cooley's ability to adapt his game to the highest level has proven crucial for the Flames. Despite playing six games for the San Jose Sharks back in the 2023-24 season, he didn't see any NHL action with Calgary last year after signing in the summer of 2024, making his current success particularly noteworthy.
