Dustin Wolf has been one of the most important pieces for the Calgary Flames alongside Rasmus Andersson and Nazem Kadri. The 24-year-old goaltender had an outstanding season in the league, where he was a finalist for the Calder Trophy, standing out as one of the best rookies.
Times change, and now Wolf, already established, will face higher levels of pressure. At the same time, the Flames hold high expectations this season after falling just short of the playoffs with a relatively young roster.
Wolf was one of the bright spots for Calgary after missing the playoffs by a single tiebreaker point. The Flames’ netminder is eager to solidify himself as a key star for his team and continues to deliver words that resonate, especially with figures like Kadri.
Wolf’s words of encouragement
“For me, last year is last year; you can’t repeat the same thing. The goal is to get into next season, have a good summer, and be better. I think the term I like to use right now is ‘don’t be complacent,’” Wolf said Saturday at the Canyon Meadows Golf and Country Club during the Rogers Legends of Hockey event, as reported by NHL.com.
“I think there’s less margin for error. Guys are precise with the puck, both on and off the stick, and they’re good in net. I’m still very young and trying to adapt to the league. I’ve had a full year with the team, but that means absolutely nothing. I want to come in here with a big chip on my shoulder. We have a lot to prove as a team,” the goalie added.
Wolf’s performance last season
Wolf started 53 games and posted a 29-16-8 record with a 2.64 goals-against average, a .910 save percentage, and three shutouts. Although the Flames narrowly missed the playoffs after losing the tiebreaker to the St. Louis Blues, the goaltender has cemented himself as a valuable cornerstone.