Every elite goaltender aims to build a specific reputation: the ability to shake off a bad performance and come back stronger in the next start. For the Calgary Flames' Dustin Wolf, that bounce-back quality is under the microscope as he prepares to return to the crease.
A Test of Resilience After a Tough Week
Dustin Wolf will be back in net for the Calgary Flames on Thursday against the Minnesota Wild, marking his first start in over a week. The young franchise pillar's last outing was a brief and difficult one on November 26th in Tampa Bay, where he was pulled after allowing three goals on just four shots in less than six minutes of play.
Since that stumble against the Lightning, backup Devin Cooley has started three consecutive games. Wolf saw limited action in relief during a 5-1 loss to Nashville last Thursday, but a mop-up appearance offers little true evaluation. All eyes will now be on No. 32 to see how he responds to this adversity.
Wolf's Track Record of Rebounds
Fortunately for the Flames, Wolf is beginning to establish a pattern of strong performances following sub-par showings. When asked about his reset strategy about a month ago after a previous pull, Wolf offered a straightforward approach. "In that scenario, I sit my butt on the chair, watch the rest of that game, get on the plane, play some cards and wake up the next day ready to rock," he stated. "And then when you get that next opportunity to get back in there, you try to redeem yourself."
The statistics back up his ability to redeem himself. During his time with the AHL's Calgary Wranglers, Wolf was pulled from a game only four times. In his next starts following those hooks, he posted a record of 3-1 with a solid .919 save percentage.
Carrying the Trend into the NHL
That promising trend has continued at hockey's highest level. In the NHL, after being given the early hook by a coach, Wolf's numbers are nearly identical: a 2-1 record with, again, a .919 save percentage in those bounce-back games. His record could easily be 3-0 if not for a lack of offensive support in a 2-0 loss to the Winnipeg Jets on October 20th, a game where he was brilliant despite the defeat.
Flames fans fondly remember legendary netminder Miikka Kiprusoff for his almost superhuman ability to be a brick wall immediately after a rare off night. While the 24-year-old Wolf has a long career ahead to reach that legendary status, the early data suggests he is on the right path, building a reputation as a goalie who responds to a stinker with a stellar effort.
The key questions now are whether the extended break benefits the NHL's busiest goalie early this season, and if he uses Thursday's game against the Wild to make a statement. One thing the stats confirm: betting against Dustin Wolf's ability to bounce back has not been a wise move so far.
