Insecure Halak still trying to prove himself

Desperate Halak makes an unnecessary save on a Blackhawks breakaway.

Blair Charbonneau, Hockey Net

ST. LOUIS — After posting a 1.72 goals against average, a .932 save percentage, and two shut outs in eight games, St. Louis Blues goaltender Jaroslav Halak still wants people to know he can play at the NHL level.

“I know they [Montreal] traded me, but I can be a number one. I am just as good as Carey Price, you’ll see,” Halak said anxiously.

In a move last summer that shocked the city of Montreal into a Mad-Max-like, post-apocalyptic war-zone, the Canadiens dealt playoff hero Halak last to the Blues in favour of then back-up Price.

Since the trade, Halak has played with a chip on his shoulder and has arguably been the league’s best goaltender so far this season. Yet, Jaroslav still suffers from an inferiority complex and has given his teammates the impression he’s overcompensating.

“Frankly, it’s embarrassing. He doesn’t have try this hard, nobody tries this hard in St. Louis,” quipped forward Alexander Steen, “Christ, Kariya even took the entire year off.”

Blues captain Eric Brewer explained further, “We have to reassure Jaro after every goal he’s not going to be traded. I’ve asked him to tone it down. We know he’s good, he doesn’t have to rub it in.”

At the press conference following the Blues’ win against Atlanta, St. Louis media were baffled by Halak’s intensity and focus, prompting many to ask what exactly he’s trying to accomplish.

“I’ve explained to him that this isn’t Montreal, he’s a member of the Blues now and he has to start respecting our system," explained Blues coach Davis Payne, adding,

Halak will get another chance to fall in line Thursday at home against the San Jose Sharks.