By Jared Bickler
Long Island - One of the quiet secrets of the New York Islanders relative success last season was the play of goaltender Riku Helenius. Leaned on to play all 82 games last season with a rebuilding team, the 36-year-old came through with flying colours. Sporting a 3.32 GAA and a .889 save percentage, the veteran goalie had a career average season playing for a very untalented team. Now, the soon-to-be UFA is playing for dough, another chance at a big contract, and he is proving to be another invaluable asset for the Islanders.
Riku has played in all four of the Islanders games this season, he is sporting a 3-1-0 record, 1.75 GAA and a sensational .946 save percentage. Oh, and he has 2 shutouts in those four games. Simply put, Riku is standing on his head and giving the fledgling Islanders some much needed confidence.
"When we have Reeks in net, we win games. There is no question as to who is backstopping our mistakes, it's Riku. Yet, game after game he never complains, and never gives up, he just performs. We're so glad to have that kind of veteran leadership at the most important position on our team. He gives us a chance every night." said Islanders' captain, Quinton Howden.
There'll be some question as to whether the Islanders will, or can resign their start netminder. One thing that nobody will question is if he is worth every dime he's paid.
2/22/2022 - 242 words
