Washington Capitals coach Barry Trotz announced Tuesday that Braden Holtby would be the team’s starting goaltender for Game 3 of their Stanley Cup Playoff series with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Philipp Grubauer started the first two games of the series, both of which Washington lost in overtime. Grubauer allowed four goals in two periods in Game 2 and was replaced with Holtby.
Holtby’s .932 career playoff save percentage is the second-best mark in NHL history, behind Tim Thomas. Tuesday will mark Holtby’s 60th career playoff start.
“Braden’s going in tonight, and he’s going to do what he’s done for a while,” Trotz said.
After Holtby went 2-5-2 in February, Grubauer earned more playing time. But Grubauer’s lack of playoff experience showed at Capital One Arena on Thursday and Sunday.
“Our decision starting Gruby was just the numbers he’s put up over the last while, and Holts was a true pro,” Capitals coach Barry Trotz said. “He’s been working with our goalie coaches on his game and got some momentum toward the end of the season. So you look at what [Holtby’s] done in the playoffs, all those things, I think it’s a pretty good option for us.”
Game 3 in Columbus, Ohio, starts at 7:30 p.m. ET.
• Adam Zielonka can be reached at azielonka@washingtontimes.com.
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