Examining what Ilya Bryzgalov Brings to the Anaheim Ducks

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Jan 7, 2015; Anaheim, CA, USA; Anaheim Ducks goalie Ilya Bryzgalov (80) blocks a shot against the New York Rangers during the first period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

At this point in his career, Bryzgalov has gained more attention for his personality off the ice, rather than for his play on it. Between his unexpected intelligence and unique methods of articulation, Bryzgalov is the perfect athlete for internet fodder. For the most part, he tries to keep things lighthearted and not get too down about the things going on around him. It’s hardly a bad thing to have in the locker room.

The biggest reason why Bryzgalov deserves a serious chance in competing for a spot on the team is that he wants to be here. Bryzgalov wants to play for a competitive team and wants to contribute to their success. Bryzgalov is driven to do well, get better, and compete for a championship. Between the games against the Ottawa Senators and New York Rangers, Bryzgalov got exponentially better, and that trend will hopefully continue into the next game he plays. It may not be much for right now, but for the future, Bryzgalov will be a backup who can give the Ducks a chance to win whenever he’s in net.

The worst thing about this signing is the timing. Had Bryzgalov been signed in July instead of LaBarbera or offered a professional tryout before training camp, the issues he is facing now would not be as urgent or dire as they seem right now. Since the timing of the signing is less than ideal, the Ducks can only hope to get the most out of Bryzgalov they can, while giving Andersen some well-deserved time off between starts.

Next: Profiling Emerson Etem