Why Three Goalies Makes Sense for the Red Wings (+)

Trying to make a three-goalie system work in an NHL practice is challenging. Three goalies divided by two practice nets is bad math. But as inconvenient as a three-goalie system can be, it isn’t nearly as aggravating as the experience the Detroit Red Wings endured last season when their goaltending depth failed them.

Detroit general manager Steve Yzerman’s actions all summer suggests he wanted to be sure this doesn’t happen again.

Yzerman drafted two goalies, including highly regarded Michigan State freshman Trey Augustine. He signed NHL veteran James Reimer to a one-year deal and then signed Alex Lyon to a two-year one-way contract. Yzerman brought in another NHL experienced goalie Michael Hutchinson into camp on a tryout camp. He wanted more depth and he went out and got it.