Humbled Dubnyk reflects on horrific season

The Edmonton Journal caught up with former Oilers goaltender Devan Dubnyk, who is now serving as one of the Black Aces on the playoff run for the Montreal Canadiens.

He was quite candid with his thoughts on what turned out to be a horrific season.

“Really the worst-case scenario," he admitted. "It’s disappointing and unfortunate. I’m trying to get through it.”

He called having to play in the minors 'humbling' and noted, “It’s not the ideal situation heading into free-agency. There’s lots of guys.”

He also said, “I have to be honest with myself. I can’t be demanding a starting job, anywhere. Maybe if I could get into a 1 and 1b and have the opportunity to compete for ice-time and for starts…the most important thing is getting back into the NHL. I don’t think I’d take a two-way contract. I hope that’s not a decision I have to make.”

There's a Mike Smith reference in the article, reflecting on his time before the move to Phoenix, which may be of particular interest to you. Check it out. It's an indication that Dubnyk remains with a positive outlook.

The piece ends with a combination of humility, but also that same confidence in his abilities.

“I have to get better. I have to look at ways I can improve but I don’t think I have to change the way I play."

Source: Jim Matheson, Edmonton Journal