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Scott Darling Goalie
Scouting Report
The goaltending situation has not been friendly to Carolina for the last few seasons. Anton Khudobin was the last reliable goalie besides Cam Ward within the last five or six seasons, and he was out of Raleigh pretty quick.
The acquisition of Scott Darling not only adds excitement to the franchise, the Canes have already shown commitment to him with a four-year contract extension. Darling posted some great numbers backing up Corey Crawford with the Chicago Blackhawks as well.
Ward played well in his lone start of the season, saving 48 of 51 shots against the Oilers. However, Darling is the set in stone starter as Ward is seemingly getting phased out during a declining period in the latter stages of his career.
A performance that saw Darling make 25 saves and only give up one goal to the Calgary Flames is a very encouraging sign. Ever since he let up four goals to the Minnesota Wild in the season opener, Darling’s performances have gotten better and better.