Philipp Grubauer will start over Braden Holtby for the Washington Capitals in their Game 1 matchup against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday.
"I think that Grubi deserves the opportunity," head coach Barry Trotz said, according to NHL.com's Brian McNally.
Grubauer was the superior goaltender this season, posting a .923 save percentage and a 2.35 goals-against average in 35 games. Holtby, meanwhile, regressed significantly, as he owned just a .907 save percentage and a 2.99 GAA in 54 contests.
"Braden was fantastic. An absolute pro," Trotz said when asked how Hotlby handled the news.
Grubauer and Holtby were splitting time down the stretch, as Trotz would seemingly ride the hot goaltender. Still, it's surprising that Washington won't have its former Vezina and Jennings Trophy winner between the pipes to begin the postseason.
It appears Trotz will use a similar strategy in the playoffs, as he said he'll decide on his starting netminder on a "game-by-game" basis, he told Stephen Whyno of the Associated Press.
Though it likely didn't factor into Trotz's decision, Holtby also struggled in the playoffs last year, as his save percentage fell to .909, and his GAA rose to 2.47 as the Caps were ousted in the second round to the Penguins, despite being Stanley Cup favorites. His postseason resume prior to last year, however, was sensational.
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