Raaymakers Proving His Point

Joseph Raaymakers was considered an NHL prospect last summer. In fact, he got to skate with the NHL’s New York Rangers. He was also the 37th overall OHL pick in 2014, and had two seasons of OHL experience entering this season. He was the Soo Greyhounds predetermined starter, on a contending team this season.

All that changed quickly.

Midseason, Raaymakers was usurped in net by rookie Matt Villalta, an undrafted prospect who had never played a game in the OHL, let alone a Junior hockey game. In fact, last season, he played Major Midget ‘AAA’.

Villalta was a star, earning consideration as the league’s top rookie, putting up sparkling numbers, and was given the starting role entering the playoffs.

That is, until the youngster faltered in game two, and Raaymakers came in.

Since that moment, he’s been proving his point, proving his detractors wrong, and putting up the best numbers in the OHL.

Through his five games, he has a 1.16 GAA, a 0.959 save percentage, and 4 wins, along with a scoreless period in relief of Villalta.

Defeating the Flint Firebirds, and into their series against the Owen Sound Attack, Raaymakers is in control, as are the Soo Greyhounds.

Now the challenge for Joseph Raaymakers, is to continue his consistency, and continue to help his team win. You can bet Villalta is waiting to pounce should the door open again, but so far this postseason, Raaymakers has shut the door on everyone who has come knocking.