Joonas Korpisalo proving to be important piece for the Bruins
Over the summer, the Boston Bruins reshaped their goalie room when they traded Linus Ullmark to the Ottawa Senators. Part of the return was Joonas Korpisalo, who, after a rough start, has proven to be a reliable backup. Over the last few weeks, the 30-year-old has been one of the Bruins most consistent players.
Through 10 games this season, the former third-round pick has posted a 2.40 GAA and .909 save percentage. The veteran netminder also has two shutouts, which ties his career high. With Jeremy Swayman still rounding into form, Korpisalo's play has been a welcome sign.
During November, he provided a much-needed boost as the Bruins struggled before finally playing like the team everyone expected them to be. In five starts, Korpisalo never allowed more than three goals in a game. The Bruins won four of his starts, with their only loss coming against the St. Louis Blues in overtime.
While Korpsialo may be flying under the radar, his interim head coach, Joe Sacco, is taking notice of just how good he has been.
“Very important player for us,” Sacco said after the Bruins win over the Red Wings on Tuesday. “He flies under the radar a little bit with the start that he’s had with our group. He deserves a lot of credit for the way he’s come in and played under tough situations sometimes.”
As the Bruins look to build on their recent play, they will need Korpisalo to continue his success. So far in December, the Bruins are 3-0 and have won four of their last five games. That is partly due to Korpisalo, who has given them a chance to win whenever he is called upon.
With Thanksgiving now in the rearview mirror, the Bruins once again have found a reliable goalie tandem as they look to end their championship drought.
