Jacob Markstrom trying to walk back some of his previous comments amid worst stretch of his career
Calgary Flames goalie Jacob Markstrom has had sometime to think it over, changing his tune from declaring that he sucks at hockey less than a week ago.
The 32-year-old was hard on himself after giving up two goals on nineteen shots in a 2-1 loss to the Montreal Canadiens last Thursday. Markstrom gave up the first goal 13 seconds into the game.
Giving up goals at the beginning of games has become a habit for Markstrom, the first quarter of the season.
Markstrom has a record of 8-6-2 with a 889 save percentage and a 2.97 goals-against average. His numbers are way down from his career average of 911 save percentage and 2.70 GAA.
The Sweden product had time to reflect after practice:
"Sometimes you're still upset and still angry and frustrated and that carries over into an interview 15 minutes after a game, where if you wait an hour and ask me the same question you would get a completely different answer."
Flames head coach Darryl Sutter has faith in both his netminders. Pointing out that the Flames' goaltending has improved as the season has progressed. Their five-on-five save percentage in October was 27th in the league (.904), and through six days in December it is ninth (.945).
"I trust our goalies,» Sutter said, «It's the best position we have on our team, that's for sure. If you look at it, in the last two weeks, our goals-against has went from 30th to 13th. So, keep making progress.»
Markstrom has faith in his play and credits having a short memory.
"I think you need to have it or else you're in the wrong occupation,» he said ahead of Wednesday's home game against the Minnesota Wild.
«Didn't do very well in school but it was really, really good on the ice.»
| POLL |
Will Jacob Markstrom and Jack Campbell turn their seasons around? |
| Markstrom can. Campbell�s confidence is shot | 26 | 45.6 % |
| Campbell can. Vladar is taking Markstrom�s net | 7 | 12.3 % |
| Both will | 14 | 24.6 % |
| Backups are taking the net | 10 | 17.5 % |
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