Miikka Kiprusoff Soft Between the Pipes?

The Calgary Flames have traditionally been slow starters. Though it sounds humorous, they are off to their best start since 2004 with a 1-1-1 record.

After their humiliating loss to Vancouver on opening night, I assured the naysayers that Kiprusoff would have a bounce-back performance, and that no one needs to worry about the Flames' No. 1 goaltender this season.

After the second game against Vancouver I had different thoughts.  After watching him surrender another five goals I realized Kiprusoff does not seem to comfortable in net right now.  He is giving big rebounds directly in front of him, even though he is known for directing his rebounds into the corners.  He is also letting in some questionable goals. 

This leads to Calgary's first win of the season last night, during which saw them beat the Avalanche 5-4.  Though the team looked sharp on the ice, I noticed that Kiprusoff was still struggling to make the key saves that had earned him his $6.5 million salary.

One question that might be asked is whether Iron Mike's steel fist has gotten to the goaltender.  When Kiprusoff used to lift his mask after a weak goal he would shrug it off, and move on. Now it seems he has a certain look of bewilderment in his eyes.

The coach and the goalie controversy was a popular topic in the 2007-2008 season, in which Mike Keenan called out his goaltender, and even pulled him in key games.

Another thing that could be affecting his play is the media.  The media is constantly scrutinizing his play from last season.  They forget that though his numbers were worse than the previous two years, he still had 39 wins last year, which was good enough for third-best in the league.

Regardless of what people are saying, Kiprusoff has traditionally been recognized as a slow starter.  With their .500 start after three games, I believe that this team and their goalie are going to go on to have one of their best seasons to date.