Jakub Malek - Ilves - Liiga
Back to Finland we go, only this time we're looking between the pipes at goalie Jakub Malek. The Devils' goalie struggles have been well-documented, and a clear, long-term solution hasn't fully shown its face yet. However, after the season that Malek has put together, he may be the answer down the line.
The former fourth-round pick back in 2021 bounced around the minor leagues in his native Czechia before making the move to Finland. Since coming over he has taken the reigns as the starting goalie for Ilves in Liiga. After a solid 2022-23, Malek has taken his game to the next level this season. In the regular season, Malek has put up a remarkable 16-4-5 record, with a 2.32 GAA and a 0.915 SV% to go along with two shutouts. Impressive for a young goalie in just his second season playing in one of the toughest leagues in Europe.
What's most impressive is that Malek has kept the strong play going in Liiga playoffs. In three games so far, he has a 1.87 GAA and a 0.910 SV%. At just 21 years old, Malek has taken the net for a playoff team and by the looks of it, is giving his team a chance to win each night. The Devils have had quite the opposite for most of the season, as they watched their playoff dreams crumble away largely due to poor goaltending. If Malek's development can stay on its current trajectory, then the Devils may have a future answer in goalie down the line.