Vitek Vanecek Gets Start Against Red Wings

Photo: @Capitals

Washington Capitals head coach Peter Laviolette told 106.7 The Fan this morning that Vitek Vanecek will get the start in goal against the Red Wings tonight.

Vanecek is 2-0-0-1 with a 2.05 goals against average (GAA) and a .920 save percentage so far this season. He was pulled in his last start after giving up three goals in the first period against the Calgary Flames on Saturday.

Prior to Saturday’s game, Vanecek led the NHL in 5-on-5 save percentage. He is currently 4th in the league with a .967 save percentage at 5-on-5. Vanecek has a 0.75 GAA at even strength, which is 5th best in the league. He has not allowed a high-danger goal so far this season, which is tied for first in the league.

On the flip side, Vanecek has the league’s worst (largest) average goal distance at 56.50 feet.

The Capitals host the Red Wings tonight at Capital One Arena. Puck drop is set for just after 7:00 PM.

By Jon Sorensen

About Jon Sorensen

Jon has been a Caps fan since day one, attending his first game at the Capital Centre in 1974. His interest in the Caps has grown over the decades and included time as a season ticket holder. He has been a journalist covering the team for 10+ years, primarily focusing on analysis, analytics and prospect development.

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