One of the many talented goaltending prospects on the Vegas Golden Knights roster is Jesper Vikman, who might have a major effect this season. From previous year, Vikman played in 15 games for the Henderson Silver Knights and the Savannah Ghost Pirates, recording a goals against average (GAA) of 3.01 and a save percentage of.899. Having a 3.48 goals-against average and.891 save percentage during his time with the Silver Knights was more challenging.
Within the Vegas organization, Vikman has a chance to advance, perhaps assisting in the search for a replacement first-base goalkeeper. With Adin Hill and Logan Thompson returning from last year, the team’s configuration will be very similar. In order to establish a firm foundation for his future, Vikman needs to mature into his body and adapt to the AHL level of play, which is more challenging than the ECHL due to the superior competition.
With Carl Lindbom and the recently acquired Akira Schmid making up the goaltending room for the Henderson Silver Knights, Vikman will need to make an impact by taking advantage of his size to limit space. Vikman may seize control of the Silver Knights’ net with his physical features and calmness. While Bruce Cassidy and others are putting their money on Adin Hill for another season—and maybe even bringing him back next summer if all goes well—the Vegas Golden Knights system currently has a number of goaltenders. If things don’t work out for Ilya Samsonov, though, Schmid might step in as the backup.
A successful season with the Henderson Silver Knights is Jesper Vikman’s stepping stone to a starting role with the Vegas Golden Knights. It would be beneficial for Vegas if he could improve his statistics and make better use of his frame so the Golden Knights have more reason to retain him and strengthen their goalkeeper room.
