Connor Hellebuyck and Jake Oettinger. Two elite American goaltenders set to battle for the crease at the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan. It’s going to be a huge event no hockey fan will want to miss. To wear your country’s colors on the biggest and most prestigious stage is the ultimate honor. Everyone wants to play, represent, and fight—but only one can start in goal. The question for the USA is who?
When comparing these two goalies, the first thing that stands out is the number of shutouts. Hellebuyck recorded an incredible eight last season. During the 2024/25 regular season, the Winnipeg Jets netminder was nearly unbeatable. His saves left fans in awe — at times, it seemed like he wasn’t even human.
For Oettinger, last season was slightly more “average” compared to his previous campaigns. He still made brilliant saves, remained a reliable presence, and delivered in clutch moments—exactly what a top goalie should do—but there was a noticeable dip. The star Dallas Stars netminder managed “only” two shutouts in comparison to Hellebuyck’s eight.
Playoffs – The Big Games
Where the real difference shows, however, is in big games and the playoffs. That’s where Oettinger has been absolutely dominant compared to his counterpart. Year after year, Winnipeg’s backbone has been heavily criticized for his postseason performances, particularly on the road, while Oettinger has received praise, often looking like Dallas’s best player. It’s precisely these high-pressure performances that could tip the scales in deciding who should be the starter at the Olympics. After all, that’s where the toughest moments, the hardest games, and the greatest pressure (internally and from the media) will come.
Did the Four Nations Give Us a Hint?
The Four Nations tournament in February featured the best players from across the NHL. Hellebuyck performed solidly, backstopping Team USA and winning every game he started—until the final, where his first loss came at the worst possible moment. Oettinger, meanwhile, appeared in one game against Sweden, a 2–1 loss. He made 21 saves but it ultimately wasn’t enough for the Americans.
So, who will start? Who will lead Team USA to their long-awaited Olympic triumph?
Much will depend on their current form and how each goalie begins the new season, which is just around the corner. As fate would have it, the Jets and Stars face off in their season opener on October 9th—a head-to-head duel between Hellebuyck and Oettinger, America’s two best goaltenders. Will that game decide who starts? We’ll soon find out.
