Goaltending always plays a key role in the playoffs and it's not likely to change this year.
Jonathan Quick was sensational in leading the Los Angeles Kings to their first Stanley Cup championship last year. He was steady throughout all four rounds of the playoffs, and he was spectacular when the Kings needed a big save at the key moment. Quick won the Conn Smythe Award as the playoffs MVP.
One year earlier, Tim Thomas had a memorable run for the Boston Bruins. Thomas recorded four shutouts as the Bruins won their first Stanley Cup since 1972, and he also took home the Conn Smythe Award.
This year, the Chicago Blackhawks and Pittsburgh Penguins have the inside track to the top spots in their conferences. Both are well-balanced, offensive teams with the ability to light up the scoreboards. It would not be surprising if either team brought home the Stanley Cup.
However, if they do, it seems more likely it will be the result of spectacular play by stars like Jonathan Toews and Sidney Crosby rather than their goaltenders.
Here's a look at the goaltenders who are most likely to get hot and lead their teams in the postseason.
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