2024-25 Fantasy Hockey: Top 10 Goalies
This is the final column in the series focusing on the top 10 at each position.
We led off with centers in the first column followed by right and left wingers and then blueliners.
Unlike other lists that may focus on how well the netminder might stick handle the puck, our primary driver here is how these individuals rank from a fantasy perspective. Where germane, we most certainly will highlight the non-scoring aspects that the player brings to the table that tell the whole story, but that is a secondary aspect to where he sits on the list.
1. Igor Shesterkin, New York Rangers
Part of the reason for this ranking is how Shesterkin has raised his game in the post-season. Shesterkin, who won the Vezina Trophy for the 2021-22 season, had an up-and-down campaign last year but righted the ship after the All-Star break and carried that play through the playoffs.
Shesterkin leads the NHL with 109 wins over the past three seasons and tied with Connor Hellebuyck for second in shutouts with 13 during that span, trailing only Ilya Sorokin (15). Shesterkin, whose goals-saved-above-expectations (GSAx) is usually towards the top of the league, heads into the 2023-24 campaign in the final year of his deal as he looks to break the bank.
Related: 2024-25 Fantasy Hockey Team Preview: New York Rangers
2. Andrei Vasilevskiy, Tampa Bay Lightning
Here is where the debates normally begin, though some could argue with Shesterkin at No. 1. Anyone from second to fifth are interchangeable, as those are really based on preference.
Despite the loss of Steven Stamkos, I have Vasilevskiy at No. 2, largely because he enters this season completely healthy. The extra time off due to the early-round playoffs exit should benefit him. Off-season back surgery cost Vasilevskiy nearly two months last season, yet he finished with at least 30 wins for the seventh straight season despite so-so numbers. Look for a full return to form from Vasilevskiy, who won the Vezina after the 2017-18 season and leads the NHL…
