Dennis Hildeby speaks out after bone-headed play that cost the Maple Leafs a win
Photo credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Dennis Hildeby was having a solid game against the Detroit Red Wings, up until overtime, when he made a very costly mistake.
Dennis Hildeby has been a solid backup goalie for the Toronto Maple Leafs this season, although there is no denying that he has struggled to pick up wins.
On Sunday night, he started against the Detroit Red Wings and finished with 33 saves on 36 shots. Unfortunately, yet again, it was not enough to win.
The Leafs played a solid game against the Atlantic Division leaders, although they couldn't seem to get it done at the very end. As it turns out, Hildeby's error was the reason why.
Dennis Hildeby loses it for the Toronto Maple Leafs
Below, you can see Hildeby try to clear the puck out of the zone on his own terms in overtime. Since it was three-on-three, there was no one in the area to scoop up the puck.
The puck ended up on the stick of Simon Edvinsson, who dangled through Hildeby and put home the game-winner. It was a tough watch, and a bad moment for Hildeby.
After the game, Hildeby spoke to the media about what went down, and it was here that he explained his thought process behind the move.
I think I saw an opportunity to get a breakaway to Matthews there. Didn't really execute how I wanted to, but I think it was the right play. Yeah, I would have done it differently if I got a second chance. I should have used both hands. I decided to use one hand. I just scooped it. So I'll try to learn from that.
Following this game, Hildeby now has a goals-against average of 2.95 and a save percentage of .912. These are decent numbers, but not enough to carry the Leafs.
With Anthony Stolarz expected to miss more time, it is clear that Hildeby will be the backup for the foreseeable future. Whether or not the Leafs change that remains to be seen.
The Leafs are back in action on Tuesday night against the New Jersey Devils.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 29 | 361 ANSWERS Dennis Hildeby speaks out after bone-headed play that cost the Maple Leafs a win Do you believe Dennis Hildeby is the right backup goaltender for the Toronto Maple Leafs | ||
| YES | 317 | 87.8 % |
| NO | 44 | 12.2 % |
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