Pogge, who signed a one-year, two-way deal with the Coyotes in July of 2011, played in 48 AHL games last season with a 3.12-GAA and a .907 save percentage. With the departure of Ilya Bryzgalov, the 'Yotes are a bit less committed to one particular goalie on their roster, but Pogge will likely be the man between the pipes in the AHL, seeing NHL action only in the event of injury.
Pogge has now been a part of three NHL clubs (Toronto, Anaheim, Carolina) and he isn't even 25 years old yet. He once was highly regarded in the hockey world as a "can't miss prospect," but more has been expected of him than he's been able to deliver. Carolina picked him Pogge in a trade when starting goalie Cam Ward was sidelined with a back injury, though he never made it onto NHL ice as he was a mere emergency option for the 'Canes. Expect the well-traveled Pogge to get more experience playing in the AHL with the Charlotte Checkers in the upcoming season.
Pogge was acquired from the Maple Leafs in August as he never developed as expected in Toronto, but the Ducks are hoping that he can better reach his potential in Anaheim. In 53 AHL games last season, Pogge had 26 wins and a 2.70 goals-against average. Unless there is an injury or a trade in Anaheim, Pogge won't be playing for the big club this season.
Pogge’s path to the NHL has been lined with weighty expectations and sub-par delivery. But that doesn’t mean he won’t eventually become a serviceable NHL starter. We just don’t think he’s the stud so many thought he was after leading Team Canada to gold at the World Junior tourney. Watch him this season to see how he responds to the starter's role with the Marlies -- that will go a long way in helping determine if a roster spot is needed for him long term.
Pogge’s path to the NHL has been lined with weighty expectations and sub-par delivery. But that doesn’t mean he won’t eventually become a serviceable NHL starter. We just don’t think he’s the stud so many thought he was after leading Team Canada to gold at the World Junior tourney. Watch him this season to see how he responds to the starter's role with the Marlies -- that will go a long way in helping determine if a roster spot is needed for him long term.
Pogge inherits the Leafs' "goaltender of the future" mantle after the trade of Tuuka Rask to the Bruins. As with most young goalies, he'll need a few seasons before he's ready to live up to his promise at the NHL level.
