Canadiens' Niemi nets 1st win of season
After 10 games and stints with three different clubs this season, Antti Niemi has finally found the win column.
The Montreal Canadiens netminder picked up his first victory of the season on Friday as the Habs downed the Washington Capitals by a 3-2 score.
It's been a well-traveled year for Niemi, who began the season with the Pittsburgh Penguins, only to be placed on waivers just one month into his start with the defending Stanley Cup champions after some early struggles.
Though the veteran goaltender was claimed off waivers by the Florida Panthers, Niemi was once again released - having played just two games. The Canadiens came calling this time around, in need of a goalie with then backup Al Montoya on the mend.
| Team | Games | Record | SV% | GAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Penguins | 3 | 0-3-0 | .797 | 7.49 |
| Panthers | 2 | 0-1-0 | .872 | 5.11 |
| Canadiens | 5 | 1-1-1 | .919 | 2.59 |
Three teams, 10 games, and too many goals allowed. And while it's been a hectic season for Niemi, he was a calming presence Friday, as he turned aside 24 shots in the Canadiens' win.
Prior to Friday, his most recent victory came last April as a member of the Dallas Stars.