Holy cow.
Elvis Merzlikins is becoming a nation-wide sensation, and for good reason.
The Blue Jackets' rookie netminder is playing unbelievably good hockey, and he's doing it game after game.
Elvis Merzlikins in his last 4 games:
— Dimitri Filipovic (@DimFilipovic) January 19, 2020
4 wins
3 shutouts
Stopped 134 of 136 shots faced
Stopped 31 of 32 high danger chances faced
Expected goals against were 11.4, actually gave up just 2 (via NST)
I cant stress this last point enough.. his name is Elvis Merzlikins
Tonight, he thwarted the New Jersey Devils, stopping all 41 shots he faced as the Blue Jackets won 5-0.
The Blue Jackets didn't play well for a majority of the game, but Merzlikins had to be sharp right from the start. The Devils registered 21 shots on goal in the first period, but Merzlikins turned them all away.
What a run it's been. After Joonas Korpisalo tore his meniscus, things were looking bleak as Elvis was thrown into the starter's role with a record of 0-4-4. Since then, Elvis is 8-2 with three shutouts, a .955 save percentage, and a 1.50 goals allowed average.
Welcome to the big time, Elvis. We're glad to have you on our side.
