What's Happening?
Keith Kinkaid, a former New York Rangers goaltender, is making a strong bid for a return to the National Hockey League (NHL) following an impressive performance in the 3ICE Professional Tournament. At 36 years old, Kinkaid showcased his skills while playing for Buffalo, impressing Ken Daneyko, a former Stanley Cup champion and current coach of the 3ICE New York/New Jersey team. Kinkaid's team defeated Daneyko's team 4-1, highlighting his potential for an NHL comeback. Kinkaid previously played for the New Jersey Devils, helping them reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs in the 2017-18 season with a record of 26-10-3, a 2.77 goals-against average, and a .913 save percentage. His career in the NHL includes stints with the Montreal Canadiens, Boston Bruins, and Colorado Avalanche, accumulating a record of 70-58-21 with a 2.91 GAA and .905 save percentage.
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Why It's Important?
Kinkaid's potential return to the NHL is significant for several reasons. It highlights the ongoing opportunities for veteran players to make comebacks in professional sports, emphasizing the importance of performance in alternative leagues like 3ICE. His return could impact team dynamics and roster decisions, particularly for teams looking to bolster their goaltending options. Additionally, Kinkaid's experience and past success could provide valuable mentorship to younger players, enhancing team performance and morale. For the NHL, having seasoned players like Kinkaid return can increase fan engagement and bring additional attention to the league, potentially boosting viewership and attendance.
What's Next?
Kinkaid's next steps involve continuing to perform at a high level in the 3ICE tournament, with the championship round scheduled for August 14. His performance in this tournament could attract interest from NHL teams seeking experienced goaltenders. If Kinkaid secures a contract, it will be crucial for him to maintain his form and adapt to the evolving pace of the NHL. Teams may evaluate his fitness and readiness to compete at the highest level, considering his age and previous career statistics. The outcome of the championship round could further influence his prospects for an NHL return.
