Mar 28, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; San Jose Sharks goalie Alex Stalock (32) makes a save against the Philadelphia Flyers during the second period at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
It was not the kind of season that Alex Stalock or the San Jose Sharks were expecting. After a stellar opening campaign in 2013-14, Stalock took a step backwards this past season and now his career in teal has reached a crossroads.
Currently, Stalock is the only goaltender under contract after signing a two-year deal last offseason; however, it’s expected that San Jose will bring in another goalie to take over the number one spot.
Stalock enjoyed his coming out party in 2013 when he appeared in 24 games, starting 18, serving as Antti Niemi’s primary backup. Stalock posted a 12-5-2 record, with a 1.87 goals-against-average (GAA) and a .932 save percentage as he looked like a solid NHL-contributor. Stalock was impressive enough that Todd McLellan turned to him in Game 6 of their opening round series against the Los Angeles Kings.
While Stalock performed admirably, the Sharks would concede three third-period goals as the Kings would eventually come all the way back to defeat San Jose and send the franchise into turmoil.
Heading into this season, it was expected that there would be a competition in net and Stalock would see more action. He started the season on a high note, shutting out the Winnipeg Jets 3-0 in the second game of the year, making 30 saves.
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However, the rest of the season wouldn’t go as smoothly for Stalock. Stalock would suffer a knee injury and require minor surgery in November which would hamper him from truly competing with Niemi for the starting job.
After the surgery, Stalock never seemed to regain the confidence and form he exhibited in 2013-14. Stalock finished the 2014-15 season with an 8-9-2 record with a 2.62 GAA and a .902 save percentage.
Now, Stalock heads into next season facing a similar situation as he’s always found himself in: fighting for his place in the NHL. Nobody knows what to make of Stalock as he’s yet to display the consistency necessary to become a bonafide number one goaltender. He’s shown flashes, but right now, he appears to be better served as a backup rather than a starter.
Again, the Sharks will sign another goaltender this offseason who will likely be given the primary shot at the starting role. Stalock should get a fresh look with new head coach Peter DeBoer coming in, but Stalock will need to find a consistency in his game, like many players on the Sharks.
It could be a make-or-break season for Stalock, who could find himself wearing another uniform after next year unless he bounces back in a big way.