Next step for Jake Oettinger? Signing new contract with Stars

Jake Oettinger

Performance evaluation

Oettinger had a huge season of growth in 2021-22. Because the team had three veteran goalies in camp, Oettinger was sent to the AHL to start the season and was just OK. He went 4-5-1 with a 2.67 GAA and a .913 save percentage.
However, when he the Stars experienced injury issues, Oettinger seized the opportunity and never let go. He became the No. 1 goalie at the NHL level and posted a 30-15-1 record with a 2.53 GAA and .914 save percentage.
Just as important, he was spectacular in the playoffs, losing in seven games to the Calgary Flames, but posting a 1.81 GAA and .954 save percentage. His GAA ranked second among goalies with more than five playoff appearances, while his save percentage ranked first.

Expectations for 2022-23

One of the biggest chores for the Stars front office is having Oettinger signed and in the lineup by opening night.
While both Scott Wedgewood and Anton Khudobin could hold the fort down, the biggest statement from last season is that Oettinger is the No. 1 goalie and that he performs well under pressure. Oettinger did hit a wall last season in his first full campaign, and it was good the Stars acquired Wedgewood to provide some rest.
But the bottom line is Oettinger displayed a tremendous amount of talent (size and athleticism) and a great mind for the position.
He really does look like a player who can compete with the top goalies in the league. Now, additional pressure brought on by his new contract will be another test, as will working with a new coaching staff in a system that could be just a little more risky.
But if the Stars are looking for an area where they really should have a ton of confidence this season, it should be goaltending.
This story was not subject to the approval of the National Hockey League or Dallas Stars Hockey Club.
Mike Heikais a Senior Staff Writer for DallasStars.com and has covered the Stars since 1994. Follow him on Twitter @MikeHeika.

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