The San Jose Shark’s general manager, Doug Wilson, announced Tuesday that goalie Alex Stalock has been re-signed to a two-year contract. Stalock would have entered unrestricted free agency had the Sharks not scooped him up.
Stalock’s first year with the Sharks, he posted a 12-5-2 overall record to go along with .932 SV%, 1.87 GAA, and two shutouts in 24 games. He also set a new franchise record for longest shutout streak. He played 178:55 without letting anyone score against him; ranging from January 5 at Chicago against the Blackhawks to January 27 against the Los Angeles Kings.
Stalock relieved starting goaltender Antti Niemi three times throughout the season over which he posted a .929 SV% and 2.05 GAA.
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Stalock was the ideal player to step up for the Sharks when the team was struggling. Coaching staff and teammates alike had nothing but good things to say about him during the season. Rumors abound as to whether he will give Niemi a run for his money for the number one spot. Anything is likely at this point, as Stalock has been stepping up his game while Niemi has been nothing but hit or miss. In addition, the Sharks are looking to have the younger plays have a more active role in the roster, creating just the chance Stalock needs.
Prior to gaining a more front row seat with the San Jose Sharks, Stalock was very active in the Worcester Sharks lineup. In 2011 he suffered a severe knee injury which almost cost him his career. The injury required two rounds of surgery and an incredibly long rehab process. Stalock even had to re-learn to walk. He sat out for nearly 12 months before jumping back on the ice.
Stalock was originally chosen by the Sharks in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft in the fourth round, 112 overall.