Dishy Goalie Monday- Jose Theodore

Playoffs are right around the corner and this week we're featuring a none playoff contender, who nonetheless greatly impacted the playoffs.

Jose Theodore is a goaltender for the Minnesota Wild. His 26 save effort against Dallas on April 10, 2011 granted the 2009-2010 Stanley Cup Champion, Chicago Blackhawks a playoff berth.

Theodore is a NHL veteran having played for the Canadiens, Avalanche, Capitals, and most recently the Wild. His indomitable spirit is truly inspiring.

Jose spent two seasons with the Washington Capitals before finding a home in Minnesota, splitting ice time with Niklas Backstrom.

Alot has been written about Jose Theodore. The tragedy he faced with the death of his infant son, being teamless at the end of summer 2010, and his time in Montreal.

Me, well I just want to write about his eyes.

The seriousness of his gaze is mesmerizing.

The Minnesota Wild signed Jose Theodore at the last minute and the decision was sound. While the team is in flux, one thing is for certain, the former Vezina winner has still got it.

Anton Khudobin: Мило, как кнопка

If Google translate can be trusted, that means cute as a button.



I have to admit that I'm aware our poor coverage of AHL goalies is an injustice to all our loyal readers. To make it up to you, I will share with a goalie who is hands down the most adorable thing to ever step on the ice.



This is Anton Khudobin. He's from Kazakhstan. He's also so cute it hurts your teeth.



He was given the nickname Dimples by his adoring fans in Houston. This interview with him might give you a hint as to how he earned it.



Did I mention he gives the most wonderful interviews ever? 


(The previous three photos, and the interview are courtesy of Sarah C. from Something's Bruin)

You may remember him from earlier in the season when, during a call-up, he had a few starts for the Minnesota Wild. During one of those games he was able to shut-out some team called the Vancouver Canucks.

I can't be the only one to have a "OMG, must cuddle" reaction to this picture (I do forget who sent it to me though, sorry).

For some silly reason the Minnesota Wild chose to send him to the Boston Bruins at the trade deadline. Because an AHL goalie on a call-up shutting out the Canucks is no big deal I guess. This ended up benefiting not just Khudobin, but the Providence Bruins as well. He reacted to the new atmosphere by playing some of his best game all season going 5-1-1.

Both of these photos are courtesy of @unsportscomments

His style is decidedly unique. One of the best descriptions I've ever heard described him as a whirling dervish. Having seen him in action several times over the last few years I couldn't agree more. He can give you palpitations with his play, but honestly, it's part of his charm and it works.

Wednesday Pick Me Up- Niklas Backstrom

I already had a post in mind for this weeks DGM when Niklas Backstrom had to be completely ridiculous and change all of my plans. So this week I've slipped in a little extra love. This post will focus on the delicious Backstrom and possibly the prettiest save of the year.

So here we go....

I always feel weird introducing NHL guys, it seems like everyone already knows the information, but I like to give a little background, it helps with the imagery.

Niklas Backstrom is from Helsinki, Finland and stands just over 6 feet tall (without skates). During Hockey Day in America Backstrom and the Minnesota Wild went up against the Detroit Red Wings and Backstrom came up huge!

and a few more goodies to start the day off right....

Those deep penetrating eyes are so intense I swoon.

I think I'm too young for hot flashes, but good lord.

Wasn't that scrumptious? A good little pick me up on hump day!