A towering prospect in Ivan Fedotov stands at 6’7 and weighs 214.5 pounds, per the Flyers PR. He was found by former Flyers’ General Manager Ron Hextall in the 7th round of the 2015 NHL Draft. Since being drafted by the Flyers; the now 27-year-old Fedotov made his way up the ranks in Russia. He was playing in the KHL (Kontinental Hockey League), which is not only Russia’s top league, but it’s arguably the second toughest league in the World. Fedotov spent time with CSKA Moscow in his final season to date in the KHL where he posted a 14-10-2 record, a 2.00 GAA (Goals Against Average), with a .919 SV% (Save Percentage). Moreover, Fedotov was also credited with two shutouts. Simply put, he kicked butt, and deserved an NHL contract.
He finally made his NHL Debut and it was a success, while backstopping 19 sanes on 21 shots faced. Fedotov really showed promise, and was one of a few players that played their butts off in a losing effort, “I don’t care if I’m playing for the first minute or whole game. Just want to help the team,” Fedotov said following his NHL Debut.
Since then it’s been a bit rocky for Fedotov. Even so much so, he was eventually benched for Aleksei Kolosov. Fedotov just didn’t seem confident, he seemed a bit rattled. His reflex time was very slow, and Fedotov had trouble moving post to post. He also struggled seeing picks through traffic, thus allowing long range goals.
Let’s fast forward to the past there starts. He has looked anything but the Goaltender that was stated above. Fedotov played well against a very good Toronto team, and against the Columbus Blue Jackets. The Maple Leafs and Blue Jackets have both solved Fedotov enough for 3-2 victories in overtime, but he is making quality save after quality save, Even if they are awkward at times and how he makes them.
Fedotov just appeared to be more confident, and maybe it was his pre-game routine,
“Big saves. He’s been through a lot. Big saves.” – John Tortorella said Post-game against the Columbus Blue Jackets
It has been an unbelievable run for Fedotov, especially after going from number three on the Goaltending depth chart to two in the blink of an eye. Sports are weird that way, and Fedotov has prevailed. He was placed in a tough spot following the injury to Samuel Ersson, and bad play by Aleksei Kolosov. Credit goes to Fedotov for staying sharp, and being ready over the course of the past few months or so.
The guys have also played their butts off for Fedotov too, but Fedotov has looked more comfortable and dialed in. Much like when he played in the KHL. He made some big saves and timely saves it was a marvelous performance.
“I think he’s been playing really good lately. I think he’s a really good goalie, and it’s showing lately. All the boys are happy for him, and it’s good to see.” Bobby Brink said following the game.
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It appears Fedotov is happy and happy to be a Flyer. He is the backup Goaltender for now, so let’s hope he continues play well.
