The Los Angeles Kings' promising season ended in disappointment after a first-round playoff exit against the Edmonton Oilers, marking the team’s 11th consecutive season without a playoff series win. Despite tying franchise records for wins and points, the Kings fell short, losing the series 4-2. The Kings dominated early games at home but faltered in critical moments, such as Game 3 and Game 4, where they relinquished leads that could have shifted the series' outcome.

The Kings had high hopes this postseason, especially after acquiring Andrei Kuzmenko at the trade deadline, leading to a strong finish in regular season play. However, missed opportunities and a struggle on defense during critical periods proved costly. Team captain Anze Kopitar expressed frustration over the outcome, emphasizing the pain of coming up short despite the team's talent and potential to succeed in the playoffs.

Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets, Darcy Kuemper of the Los Angeles Kings, and Andrei Vasilevskiy of the Tampa Bay Lightning have been named finalists for the prestigious Vezina Trophy for the 2024-25 season. This award is bestowed upon the league's best goaltender as voted by the 32 NHL general managers.

Hellebuyck, who previously won the award in 2020 and 2021, had a stellar season, achieving a career-high in wins (47), with eight shutouts, a .925 save percentage, and a 2.00 goals-against average (GAA). Kuemper, at age 34, bounced back with a record of 31-11-7, posting a .921 save percentage and a GAA of 2.02, while matching his personal best with five shutouts. Vasilevskiy, a former Vezina winner in 2019, contributed significantly with a 38-20-5 record, a .921 save percentage, a 2.18 GAA, and six shutouts.

Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets is on track to reclaim the Vezina Trophy, having been nominated alongside Darcy Kuemper and Andrei Vasilevskiy. Hellebuyck's stunning regular season featured 47 wins, 8 shutouts, a 2.00 goals-against average, and a .925 save percentage, leading the Jets to the league's best record. However, his performance has faltered in the playoffs, with 11 goals allowed in two games against the St. Louis Blues, tying their first-round series.

Darcy Kuemper, in his second season with the Los Angeles Kings, enjoyed a solid campaign as well, posting a 31-11-7 record. Meanwhile, Andrei Vasilevskiy of the Tampa Bay Lightning, a five-time finalist for the award, also had a commendable season with a 38-20-5 record, contributing to the Lightning’s postseason push. As playoff matchups intensify, all eyes will be on these goaltenders as they strive for excellence.

Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets is vying for his second consecutive Vezina Trophy, awarded to the NHL's best goaltender. After an impressive 2024-25 regular season, with a league-leading 47 wins and a 2.00 goals-against average, his playoff performance has left fans concerned. Hellebuyck faltered in recent games against the St. Louis Blues, allowing 11 goals over two contests, leading to a tied series despite Winnipeg's regular-season dominance.

Joining Hellebuyck as finalists are Darcy Kuemper, who played a significant role in the Los Angeles Kings' success with 31 wins and a 2.02 GAA, and Andrei Vasilevskiy of the Tampa Bay Lightning, a consistent presence with a solid track record. Both Kuemper and Vasilevskiy are also facing challenges in their respective playoff series.

The finalists for the 2024-25 Vezina Trophy have been announced, highlighting the exceptional performances of three elite goaltenders: Connor Hellebuyck, Darcy Kuemper, and Andrei Vasilevskiy. Hellebuyck, the defending champion, led the NHL with 47 wins, boasting a stellar 2.00 goals-against average and .925 save percentage, while Kuemper excelled in high-danger save percentage and shutouts. Vasilevskiy continued his dominance with impressive statistics, making this his fifth nomination. Each player has showcased remarkable skill and consistency, making it an exciting race for the prestigious award.

Hellebuyck's impressive season helped the Jets secure franchise records and the Presidents’ Trophy. Kuemper's contributions were pivotal in matching the Kings' franchise records for wins and points. Meanwhile, Vasilevskiy's performance was crucial for the Lightning's playoff berth and continued success in the league. With all three finalists having already achieved significant milestones, the competition for the Vezina Trophy remains fierce and compelling.