It's no secret that Carl Lindbom is a promising goaltending prospect for the Vegas Golden Knights. That's what posting a GAA of 2.12 and a save percentage of .911 with Farjestad BK last season will get you. Combine that with an incredible 2022-23 season where he had a GAA of 1.86 and a save percentage of .930 with Djurgardens IF and you have a can't-miss prospect.
When you achieve these stats between 26 and 36 games, you'll draw attention from passionate hockey fans. You'll provide them with a valid reason for watching you in the future. It also provides stability at a crucial position in hockey: Goaltender. The Golden Knights also have a good goaltender in Pavel Moysevich, providing future structure. This is especially true if you want to win the Stanley Cup unless you have Bruce Cassidy's airtight forechecking system.
But there should be more to the table than simply being promising. There's also coming to North America that'll have steady eyes watching. What can fans expect from Lindbom in his first full season in the minor leagues? What are some factors that play into his play? Hockey season is coming quickly, meaning it's time to dig in. Let's see what the new season offers for the Swedish goaltender as he arrives at North American shores.
What fans can expect from Carl Lindbom in his first season in the Vegas Golden Knights developmental system
The first big question is how he'll adapt to the new style of play. Carl Lindbom will play his first full season in the North American minor leagues, where the play will be vastly different. There will be more speed and stronger shots heading his way. Therefore, properly adapting will be key.
Size will also be considered as a factor. Lindbom (6'0") isn't a big goaltender like Pavel Moysevich (6'5"), so using his agility and crease movements will be paramount to his success. That means covering as much area as possible and reading incoming plays as they unfold. How he handles this will also determine his success.
The best prospect in the Vegas Golden Knights system might be Trevor Connelly. He's got everything a team looks for in a superstar, ranging from offensive prowess to speed to vision. However, the Swedish goaltender's journey is interesting, considering he's a former seventh-round pick. Being at the bottom of the draft barrel provides an extra chip on your shoulder, which could also affect his play. It could also benefit the Golden Knights as they prep an incredible goaltending duo for the future.