While star goalies like Andrei Vasilevskiy and Connor Hellebuyck often dominate headlines, there’s a group of lesser-hyped netminders who are quietly having outstanding seasons. These goalies may not always grab the spotlight, but they’ve been crucial to their teams’ success in the 2024-25 NHL season. Whether it’s winning games, keeping their teams in playoff races, or carrying the load during injuries, these goalies deserve more attention.
Here’s a look at seven underrated NHL goalies making a strong case for recognition this year.
Logan Thompson – A Hidden Vezina Candidate
Logan Thompson has been one of the league’s top-performing goalies, yet he remains under the radar. With a stellar 31-6-6 record, a .910 save percentage, and a 2.49 goals-against average, Thompson has been a rock in net. He kicked off the season with seven straight wins and hasn’t looked back since.
Despite his success, much of the attention around his team is focused on Alex Ovechkin’s chase for the all-time goals record. Still, Thompson has quietly played like a Vezina Trophy candidate, and if he continues this form into the playoffs, he could finally get the recognition he deserves.
Darcy Kuemper – Leading the Kings’ Revival
At 34, Darcy Kuemper is enjoying a strong season with the Los Angeles Kings. His 27-10-7 record, combined with a 2.08 GAA (second-best in the NHL for goalies with 20+ games) and a .920 save percentage, puts him among the league’s elite.
Kuemper’s steady presence has helped push L.A. into second place in the Pacific Division. If he can carry this form into the playoffs, he could help the Kings break their long drought and win their first postseason series since 2014.
Pyotr Kochetkov – Stepping Up for the Hurricanes
Pyotr Kochetkov, only 25, has been key for the Hurricanes, especially when starter Frederik Andersen missed time due to knee surgery. From November through mid-March, Kochetkov consistently ranked among the top 20 in save percentage.
Even though he’s cooled down lately—allowing 14 goals over his last three starts—Kochetkov has proven he can handle pressure. With Andersen back, there’s still a strong case for Kochetkov to be Carolina’s No. 1 goalie in the playoffs.
Dustin Wolf – A Rookie to Watch in Calgary
Calgary’s Dustin Wolf has made a name for himself this season, becoming the only rookie goalie to make 30-plus starts so far. His 25-16-6 record and .910 save percentage have made him a bright spot in a Flames season that’s been up and down.
Wolf is a front-runner for the Calder Trophy, awarded to the league’s top rookie, and he’s giving Calgary fans real hope for the future.
Lukas Dostal – Anaheim’s Next Star Goalie
Lukas Dostal has quietly impressed with the Anaheim Ducks. Despite playing on a rebuilding team, he’s posted a 22-20-6 record—no small feat under tough conditions. At only 24, Dostal has taken more starts than veteran John Gibson, suggesting he’s the Ducks’ future in net.
If Anaheim continues to improve, Dostal could grow into one of the league’s top starters.
Filip Gustavsson – Reliable in the Wild’s Playoff Push
Filip Gustavsson started the season on fire and has been a major reason why Minnesota is still in playoff contention. His 29 wins are a personal best and put him in the top 10 league-wide.
Even more memorable was when he became the 15th goalie in NHL history to be credited with a goal, making his season even more unique. Gustavsson might not be talked about as much as others, but he’s been key for the Wild’s playoff hopes.
Mackenzie Blackwood – Colorado’s Game-Changer in Net
Since being traded to the Avalanche from San Jose in December, Mackenzie Blackwood has been a game-changer. He won six of his first seven games with the team and posted a .932 save percentage during that stretch.
Before his arrival, Colorado had a 3.55 GAA. Since his debut, that number has dropped to 2.26. That’s a massive improvement, and Blackwood’s strong goaltending has balanced out Colorado’s high-powered offense and defense.
While the NHL’s superstar goalies often grab the headlines, these seven netminders have quietly played a huge role in their teams’ success this season. Whether it’s a rookie making his mark, a backup-turned-starter, or a veteran finding new form, each of these goalies is proving their worth between the pipes. As the playoffs approach, don’t be surprised if one or more of them becomes a breakout star on the biggest stage.
