Chicago Blackhawks’ Best At Each Sweater, Nos. 41-50

No. 50: G Corey Crawford (2005-present)
Thank goodness I get to end this group on a positive note. I do love me some Crow, and I’m ready to talk about him all day until those who unreasonably hate him can’t take it anymore. Everyone should appreciate Crow a little more.
The oft-overlooked netminder his helped Chicago to a pair of Stanley Cups, and was probably the true Conn Smythe winner in 2013’s run. He’s also a two-time Jennings Trophy winner for fewest goals allowed in a season and a one-time All-Star (should’ve been two last season).
Crow seems to be slowly gaining national respect, as he’s climbed the Vezina Trophy voting chart in recent years. He finished eighth in 2013, sixth in 2015 and fifth last season. He’s posted a .924 save percentage or better in three of the last four seasons and better than a 2.30 goals-against average in three of the last four as well.
While he’s had a few slip-ups in the postseason, he’s also shown true dominance more frequently. He allowed a postseason-low 46 goals against in 2013 and posted a playoff-best 1.84 GAA that year. His career statline in the Stanley Cup Playoffs: .920/2.26. That’s really, really good, especially considering Crow has played in front of a few sketchy defensive outfits.
Next: Crawford Days Until Opening Night
The Blackhawks wouldn’t have gotten much of anywhere last season without Crow, and the same could be said for other recent seasons as well. He’s among the league’s best at this point.