1. Craig Anderson (Avalanche)
Craig Anderson back-stopped the 2008-09 last place Colorado Avalanche to their best start through October in team history with a record of 10-2-2 which is tops in the NHL believe it or not.
Craig led all goalies in the NHL in starts playing in all 15 games, as well as posting a .938 save percentage. His 2.10 goals against average was good for fourth in the league through October among goalies who started at least 10 games.
October stats: GP 14, Wins 10, Sv% .938, GAA, 2.10, SO 2
On pace: GP 82, Wins 54, Shutouts 10
2. Alexander Ovechkin (Capitals)
Alex went on a goal scoring tear in the month of October. He tied his best month ever with a total of 14 goals scored and 23 points in only 14 games played.
Alex had a total of six games with two or more goals scored which is the first time a player has had achieved this mark in one month since Brett Hull did it in the early 1990’s.
Alex’s success has the Capitals second in the Eastern conference with only two regulation losses which is tops in the NHL.
October stats: GP 14, Goals 14, Assists 9, Points 23
On pace: GP 82, Goals 82, Assists 52, Points 134
3. Dustin Penner (Oilers)
Dustin Penner is finally emerging as the power forward the Oilers expected him to be after signing him to a big offer sheet a few years ago from the Anaheim Ducks.
Dustin is off to his best start in his career with 9 goals and 10 assists in his first 14 games played, as well as a +9 which is amongst the best in the entire NHL. His hot October start has helped the Oilers maintain a spot within the top eight teams in the Western conference thus far, and the Oilers will need him to keep coming through if they are to contend for a playoff spot.
October stats: GP 14, Goals 9, Assists 10, Points 19
On pace: GP 82, Goals 52, Assists 58, Points 110
Hey I know I’m saying this a big-time Sabres fan, but I really hope to see Ryan Miller up there for November’s MVP’s. I have noticed a lot of people agree with me that he is the most underrated goalie in the NHL. His stats definitely speak for themselves.
Also, you should (or I can) post that video of Miller absolutely robbing Brind’Amour blind in the Carolina game the other night. 2nd period, wide open net, diving glove save…(still get goosebumps lol.
Check out my NHL 10 highlights video