Leafs Sheldon Keefe reveals his plans for new goalie Dennis Hildeby

PUBLICATION

James Connelly
January 1, 2024 (4:04 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

The Toronto Maple Leafs called up goaltender Dennis Hildeby earlier today and now Sheldon Keefe has shared his plan for the rookie.

Today, the Toronto Maple Leafs shocked everybody when they brought goaltender Dennis Hildeby up to the NHL to be their new backup while Ilya Samsonov tries to recover in the AHL.

The @MapleLeafs have recalled G Dennis Hildeby from the @TorontoMarlies.

Following the call-up, Sheldon Keefe commented on bringing Hildeby up. Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun reports the following.

Keefe on the plan for Hildeby this week: "Take each day as it comes and try to get him up to speed at the NHL level ... get him comfortable. He's the second guy right now. Your job is to be ready." #Leafs

Keefe also said the #Leafs have not ruled out using Jones for both games in the back-to-back in California. Notes little travel between LA and Anaheim. "We'll take it a day at a time in terms of that."

While it is unknown if Hildeby will be getting any starts, if he impresses in practice enough and/or Martin Jones has a rough few games then he may be getting a start.

Dennis Hildeby's promising NHL future

Dennis Hildeby is easily one of the Leafs' most exciting prospects. Standing at 6'7", his height is something that must be mentioned whenever he is brought up.

You can try to screen Hildeby, it just won't work.

6'7 Hildebeast

Hildeby getting his first touches as a Leaf:

Aside from his stature, Hildeby is quite an effective goaltender. He has been among the best rookie goaltenders in the AHL posting a .919 sv% and a 2.20 GAA. His ceiling is quite high and if he proves he can stop the puck at the NHL level, he will be a monster for opposing teams for years to come.

As seen on HockeyFeed - Sheldon Keefe unveils his plans for Dennis Hildeby.