Henrik Lundqvist and Jonathan Quick are likely to be the top two goaltenders to go in any fantasy draft. Deciding which goaltender comes down to this season’s popular choice versus last season’s popular choice. Fantasy owners will be well served to have either goaltender, but there are distinct differences to consider when deciding which one is for you.
Lundqvist is fresh off a Vezina trophy season, and is expecting to have an even better 2012-13 campaign. The New York Rangers are a defensively responsible team that blocks shots at all costs. With such a helpful team keeping Lundqvist’s shots faced down, Hank is able to stay consistent.
It is almost a sure thing that Lundqvist will give fantasy owners a Goals Against Average under two and a Save Percentage in the 900’s. While his stunning Swedish model looks would fool most, Handsome Hank will turn 31 years-old this season. With Lundqvist at what should be the prime of his career, and an upgraded Rangers team in front of him. Look for Lundqvist to put up great numbers as he shoots for his first cup.
While Henrik Lundqvist is the older more proven goaltender, who looks like a Swedish F-1 driver, Jonathan Quick is the young talented American looking to steal the spotlight.
Quick is by no means a gamble in terms of a quality fantasy goalie. Compared to how consistent Lundqvist has been over the past few seasons, Quick is clearly the more risky when deciding between the two.
The 2011-12 season was great for Jonathan Quick who won the Stanley Cup and the Conn Smythe trophy for being the MVP of the playoffs. If Quick can have a repeat of last season he would give more shutouts and a lower Goals Against Average than Lundqvist. Quick and the Kings had such an amazing 2011-2012 season that a letdown in 2012-13 is a real possibility.
If a fantasy owner was choosing between Jonathan Quick and Henrik Lundqvist, they would not have to worry about making the wrong choice. Both goaltenders are truly talented and have strong teams, so they will without a doubt have better seasons than most fantasy goalies. The choice truly comes down to personal preference. Do you want the handsome and charming Swedish 007, or the young athletic American juggernaut.