When goaltenders dream about their first NHL win, they probably don't imagine it exactly as it happened for Braden Holtby. They probably dream about a 25 save shutout performance that includes several point-blank stops on the opponent's leading scorer.
↵It didn't go quite that way for Holtby. The 21-year old Canadian entered tonight's game between the Capitals and Bruins with just over 10 minutes remaining a tie score. Thanks to a John Carlson game-winner, Holtby only needed to make four saves to ensure the victory.
↵Holtby may have the chance to prove himself over a full 60 minutes when the Philadelphia Flyers visit Verizon Center on Sunday afternoon. Bruce Boudreau admitted to the Washington Post this morning that regular starting goaltender Michal Neuvirth has looked "a little tired" recently, so its reasonable to predict that Holtby may get his first NHL start this weekend. And it might be more memorable than tonight's win.
↵Still, a win is a win. And tonight's win in his first ever NHL appearance is one that Braden Holtby will remember for the rest of his life.
↵Congrats. Looking forward to many more.