Vasilevskiy praises Hildeby after 34-save Lightning debut

Andrei Vasilevskiy praised Dennis Hildeby’s first start for the Tampa Bay Lightning after the newcomer helped preserve Thursday’s 3-2 win over the Minnesota Wild.

“He was unreal,” Vasilevskiy said in the Lightning’s Friday FourCheck feature. He described the difficulty of opening a season with a new organisation and credited Hildeby with making several strong stops.

Hildeby finished with 34 saves on 36 shots, including all 15 he faced in the third period. The Lightning’s game report highlighted late saves that kept Minnesota from tying the score.

Vasilevskiy also praised his new partner’s work in practice and willingness to keep working. Hildeby said his teammates had helped him settle in while he adjusted to the team’s system.

“It’s about stopping the puck,” Hildeby said. “But it’s been a great start so far. I’ve had a lot of fun.”