Veteran goaltender Scott Gudmandson of the University of Wisconsin, who stopped 71 of 74 shots on goal for a .959 saves percentage and surrendered just two even-strength goals while helping the Badgers to a two-game conference sweep over visiting Minnesota State, has been named the Red Baron ® WCHA Defensive Player of the Week for Jan. 25, 2011.
A 5-10, 185-pound senior from Sherwood Park, Alberta, set a career high last Friday (Jan. 21) for saves in a win with 37, including 16 in the third period, as Wisconsin prevailed 3-2 over the Mavericks at the Kohl Center. One of the two goals he surrendered came on a first period power-play as the Badgers were outshot 39-30 for the game. Then in last Saturday’s (Jan. 22) 2-1 UW victory, Gudmandson stopped 34 of 35 Maverick shots, again stopping 16 of 17 shots in the third period. The Badgers were outshot 35-29 for the game and 17-4 in the third period. In addition, Gudmandson also helped Wisconsin hold MSU to one power-play goal in nine opportunities.
Through 21 games and 1223:55 minutes played this season, Gudmandson leads all WCHA goaltenders with a 1.76 goals-against average and .935 save percentage in all games, ranking second and fourth in the nation, respectively. In league games, his 1.94 GAA is second while his .933 save percentage is first. He also boasts four shutouts on the year.
Also nominated: Michael Boivin, D, CC; Sam Brittain, G, DU; Ben Blood, D, UND; Mike Lee, G, SCSU.