Holtby could challenge Brodeur's single-season wins record
Braden Holtby's first-half dominance could amount to a historic season.
Through 42 games of the Washington Capitals season, Holtby has made 34 starts, posting a 27-4-2 record with a .932 save percentage and two shutouts.
Should he continue at this pace, he'll have a great shot at breaking Martin Brodeur's record of 48 wins set in 2006-07.
Here's a look at how Holtby's projected pace holds up against Brodeur's benchmark season:
| Player | Season | GP | Record | Saves | Save % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Martin Brodeur | 2006-07 | 78 | 48-23-7 | 2011 | .922 |
| Braden Holtby | 2015-16 | 74 | 59-9-4 | 1939 | .932 |
While it's quite possible Holtby will appear in that many games after playing 72 last season, keeping up the win and save rates is another matter entirely.
The Capitals, however, appear to be the class of the NHL, ranking first in points, goals allowed, and goal differential.
If anyone's ever going to challenge Brodeur's win total, the man between the pipes in Washington is as good a bet as any.
Either way, Holtby's the favorite to win the Vezina Trophy, and could even get some consideration for NHL MVP.