The Best Goalie Performances of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs

The Stanley Cup Playoffs always produce unforgettable moments, but they also reveal which goaltenders can elevate their game when the pressure is at its highest. Through the first three rounds of the 2026 postseason, several netminders have delivered outstanding performances, but a handful have separated themselves from the pack.

From veteran stars chasing a championship to young goalies making their playoff debut, these are the goaltenders who have defined the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs so far.

Frederik Andersen Is Putting Together a Playoff Run for the Ages

When the Carolina Hurricanes needed stability in net, Frederik Andersen delivered far more than that.

Entering the Conference Finals, Andersen leads all playoff goaltenders with a remarkable .950 save percentage and a goals-against average hovering near 1.10. He has also posted multiple shutouts and ranks among the leaders in goals saved above expected.

What makes Andersen’s performance even more impressive is the quality of chances he has faced. According to NHL EDGE statistics, he leads remaining playoff goaltenders in high-danger save percentage while also ranking first in mid-range and long-range save percentage.

Carolina has long been known for its structured defensive game, but Andersen has repeatedly erased mistakes and provided the calm presence every championship contender needs. The Hurricanes entered the Eastern Conference Final as one of the favorites to win the Stanley Cup, and much of that confidence stems from the veteran netminder’s dominance.

If Carolina captures the Stanley Cup, Andersen will be one of the leading candidates for the Conn Smythe Trophy.

Jakub Dobes Has Become Montreal’s Playoff Hero

Every postseason features an unexpected breakout star.

This year, that player might be Montreal Canadiens rookie goaltender Jakub Dobes.

After taking control of the crease, Dobes helped Montreal survive back-to-back seven-game series and reach the Eastern Conference Final. His poise under pressure has been remarkable for a first-year NHL goaltender.

One of the most impressive aspects of Dobes’ playoff run has been his ability to respond after adversity. NHL data shows he is undefeated following playoff losses, posting a .948 save percentage and 1.49 goals-against average in those situations.

Against Buffalo, Dobes delivered several clutch performances, including a Game 7 victory that helped push Montreal into the conference finals. His goals saved above expected numbers rank among the best in the postseason, further highlighting his impact.

Montreal entered the playoffs as one of the youngest teams in the league. Thanks in large part to Dobes, they suddenly look capable of making a serious run at the Stanley Cup.

Scott Wedgewood Continues His Remarkable Journey

Few people expected Scott Wedgewood to become one of the most important goaltenders remaining in the playoffs.

Yet the Colorado Avalanche netminder has consistently delivered when called upon.

Wedgewood entered the Western Conference Final with a save percentage above .910 and a goals-against average near 2.20 while helping Colorado navigate a difficult playoff path.

His story resonates because of the path he has taken throughout his professional career. After spending years battling for opportunities across multiple organizations, Wedgewood has finally found himself playing meaningful playoff hockey for a legitimate Stanley Cup contender.

Colorado boasts one of the NHL’s most explosive offensive lineups, but Wedgewood’s steady play has allowed the Avalanche to play aggressively without fear of giving up momentum-changing goals.

Every championship team needs unsung heroes. Wedgewood may be filling that role better than anyone this spring.

Carter Hart Has Given Vegas Championship-Caliber Goaltending

The Vegas Golden Knights know what championship goaltending looks like.

This postseason, Carter Hart has provided exactly that.

Hart started every playoff game for Vegas through the opening rounds while posting a save percentage above .915 and a goals-against average around 2.40. His workload has been among the heaviest of any remaining playoff goalie, yet his consistency has never wavered.

Vegas relies on Hart to make difficult saves in critical moments, especially when games tighten up late in the third period. His ability to stay composed under pressure has become one of the biggest reasons the Golden Knights remain in contention.

With Colorado standing in the way, Hart faces perhaps his toughest challenge yet. If Vegas advances, his performance against one of hockey’s most dangerous offenses will be remembered as one of the defining moments of the postseason.

Jesper Wallstedt Proved Minnesota’s Future Has Arrived

Minnesota Wild fans have waited years for Jesper Wallstedt to become their franchise goaltender.

The wait appears to be over.

After taking over the crease during the postseason, Wallstedt provided Minnesota with quality goaltending throughout its playoff run.

Wallstedt’s calm demeanor stands out immediately. He rarely appears rattled regardless of the situation, and his technical foundation allows him to make difficult saves look routine.

Although Minnesota ultimately faced one of the toughest playoff paths in hockey, (they beat Dallas before losing to Colorado in 5 games) Wallstedt showed enough to convince many observers that he is ready to become the organization’s long-term answer in goal.

For Wild fans, the future looks very bright.

Who Has Been the Most Valuable Goalie of the 2026 Playoffs?

Several goaltenders deserve recognition for outstanding postseason performances, but Frederik Andersen currently sits atop the list.

His league-leading save percentage, elite goals-against average, and dominance in high-danger situations have elevated Carolina into Stanley Cup favorite territory.

That said, Jakub Dobes has delivered the most surprising performance of the playoffs, while Scott Wedgewood, Carter Hart, and Jesper Wallstedt are/were not far behind.

One thing is certain: if history has taught us anything, the team that ultimately lifts the Stanley Cup will almost certainly be backstopped by one of the goalies on this list excluding Wallstedt.

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2026 Stanley Cup Playoff Goalie Leaders (Entering Conference Finals)