I think that Lehtonen is a very promising young goaltender but I do think he needs more focused training.  I’m not sure about the trainers down in Atlanta but I think that Lehtonen could do a lot better with the right kind of support.

image: Zuma Press

While he posted a mediocre 19-22-3 record and a 3.06 goals against average, he also managed to pull off three shutouts and a .911 save percentage in 46 games.  He is 94-83-17 with 14 shutouts, a 2.87 GAA and .912 save percentage in 204 career games.

He’s been with the Thrashers since they chose him second overall at the 2002 NHL Entry Draft and has gone on to become the franchise’s all-time leader in games played, wins, shutouts and save percentage.

I know he’s loyal to the team and many players prefer to stick with the team that drafted them but, if things don’t improve down there, I think Lehtonen should consider leaving.  There is a lot of potential there but sometimes it’s just the wrong fit with a team.

Post from: Hockey Beat

Retroactive to October 31, 2008, Kari Lehtonen has been placed on the injured reserve.  The Atlanta Thrashers goaltender has been out of the lineup for more than three weeks – first because of an illness and then because of some back problems.

Lehtonen was off to a rocky start with a 3.44 goals-against average and .903 save percentage.  Maybe things will improve by the time he’s reactivated.

image: TSN

Post from: Hockey Beat