Edmonton Oilers Goalie Devan Dubnyk Finding Practice Time to be Tough -NHL Update
Due to the current lockout situation in the National Hockey League (NHL), it is not hard to see that goalies are having it the hardest when it comes to work opportunities in other countries. With close to no positions abroad, goaltenders are just trying
to keep sharp by practicing where they can, but it is not at that level at which it should be.
One of those net minders who are struggling to keep their skills sharp and continue playing at an intense level of that which may match the NHL, Devan Dubnyk has been forced to travel all around North America, not for any exhibition matchups, but just to
find quality practice opportunities.
“Pretty much,” sighed the 26-year-old keeper, according to the CalgarySun.com. “I’ve been flying all over the place, it’s been ridiculous. I text people I know to see if there’s a spot open and if there is, I pack up my stuff and go.”
“It’s not fun. It sucks, actually,” added Dubnyk. “I’d like to be home in Edmonton, but every time I’m there I end up not skating for four or five days and I can’t be doing that. If the NHL gets going I’m going to have to be ready.”
Currently, Dubnyk is in Calgary and does not know where he might be next in order to get some good opportunities in the door as the window of opportunity for goalies right now is very small. The problem with playing abroad is quite obvious, since franchises
overseas are just not willing to change their current net minders in order to bring on board foreigners who may leave again after a couple of weeks if the lockout comes to an end.
The 26-year-old native of Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers as the 14th overall back in round-one of the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. He has spent three seasons with Edmonton thus far and maintains a .910 save percentage
and 2.85 goals-against average.
Devan Dubnyk is also currently on a two-year, $7 million deal with Edmonton, which will make him an unrestricted free agent post the 2013-2014 NHL regular season.
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