With the Dallas Stars, and Winnipeg Jets now meeting in the playoffs this matchup is now officially a rivalry. Postseason primarily creates, and mold rivalries. In net is where the biggest story line lies. Two of the best goalies in today’s NHL, and the two best American born.

Four Nations Faceoff

This rivalry between Hellebuyck, and Oettinger really got highlighted when the Winnipeg Jets goalie was selected as the starter.  Leaving Oettinger the backup role, and fueling his fire to prove that he’s better in net. Getting a chance to play once, and supporting Hellebuyck For that time however, they were teammates who cheered each other on.

Regular season vs postseason

Hellebuyck has the resume as the goalie of choice during the regular season. All the awards he has won, and will win are all fair game. Oettinger historically speaking has been up and down every year through 82 games. Whether it be due to injury, lack of rest or inconsistent play.

Turning the page to the playoffs, the shoe is on the other foot.  Hellebuyck has only advanced past the second round once. Back in 2018. Oettinger has advanced to the third round twice, and likely a third time this year (and hopefully better than that too). As a bonus, Oettinger has had playing time in a Stanley Cup final (in relief of former Stars goalie Anton Khudobin).  A stage that Hellybuyck has yet to experience.

Hellebuyck has been the better goalie when 32 NHL teams are in play. Oettinger has been better when half of the league is left standing.  Not only is Oettinger better when the chips are down, he can win in any of us building.

2026 Winter Olympics

Not only were these two guys teammates back in February, they will be working together again next year.  One will assume the role of the starter.  While other will play as backup, and see less playing time of the two American born goalies.

Oettinger, and Hellebuyck will be pulling for each other on hockey’s biggest stage internationally in nine months in Italy. This team work will add to the rivalry between the two when the NHL gets back into play.

Photo credit: Julio Cortez/AP

These two goalies are the best American born in net.  Right now the consensus is that Hellebuyck is the better of the two.  Oettinger looks to take that title, and this second round matchup away.

Featured photo: Tom Fox/The Dallas Morning News