Corey Crawford's legacy overlooked in NHL goaltending rankings

Bleacher Report recently unveiled their list of the top ten NHL goaltenders since the turn of the millennium, stirring quite a conversation among hockey aficionados.

Among those featured are stalwarts like Henrik Lundqvist, Marc-Andre Fleury, Andrei Vasilevskyi, and the legendary Martin Brodeur-names synonymous with excellence between the pipes.

Their careers are defined by awe-inspiring saves and countless victories, making them obvious choices for such a prestigious recognition.

Even Pekka Rinne, who retired without a Stanley Cup to his name, made the cut. His inclusion underscores a tilt towards more recent players, a trend that's not uncommon in retrospective sports rankings.

Linus Ullmark, who has shown remarkable prowess particularly after joining Boston, also finds a spot on this illustrious list.

Yet, amidst this celebration of goaltending greats, an apparent omission has sparked debate. Corey Crawford, a pivotal figure in the Chicago Blackhawks' recent history, was noticeably absent from the list.

Crawford's credentials are impressive: a two-time Stanley Cup champion who began his major-league journey with the Blackhawks after a significant stint in the AHL with the IceHogs.

His NHL debut season in 2010-2011 was nothing short of phenomenal, boasting a 33-18-6 record with a 2.30 GAA and a .917 save percentage.

Crawford was instrumental in leading Chicago to championships in 2013 and 2015, showcasing his skill in high-stakes situations.

Throughout his career, Crawford amassed a total of 488 games played, with a record of 260 wins, 162 losses, 53 OT losses, and 26 shutouts. His career stats-2.45 goals against average and a .918 save percentage-paint a picture of a consistently elite goaltender.

The debate over such rankings is perennial and passionate. Every list of this nature invites scrutiny and the inevitable questions about the criteria used-whether it prioritizes individual statistics, clutch performances, longevity, or a combination of factors.

Crawford's exclusion highlights this ongoing discussion and raises questions about how we evaluate greatness in the realm of professional hockey.

This conversation extends beyond mere statistics and into what each player brought to their teams during critical moments, often carrying them through intense playoff battles to hoist the Stanley Cup.

Crawford's absence from the list may well be an oversight, or perhaps a deliberate choice that underscores the subjective nature of these rankings.

As fans and analysts alike dissect Bleacher Report's choices, the broader dialogue about what truly makes a goalie great-beyond the raw data-continues to evolve.

This analysis not only celebrates those who have been recognized but also honors those like Crawford, whose contributions to the sport resonate deeply with fans and players alike.