David McKee
Cornell | Sophomore
Statistics: 27-5-3, 1.24, .947

To write off David McKee’s goaltending statistics as a mere product of Cornell’s attention to defensive excellence is a disservice to the sophomore netminder from Irving, Texas. Sure, it helps to have five players in front of you focused on defensive zone coverage and puck possession. But McKee earned all of the recognition that he’s received this season.

He was recently announced as a Hobey Hat Trick finalist, was the ECAC Hockey League Player of the Year and Ken Dryden Award winner as the circuit’s best goaltender. McKee’s gaudy numbers include 10 shutouts, a .947 save percentage and a 1.24 goals-against average. The stat that is most overlooked is his streak of 67 starts in net for the Big Red. That’s every game in his two-year career, a testament to his consistency and durability.

It’s unfortunate that his record-setting season wasn’t fully appreciated because so much skepticism centered on McKee’s ability in relation to Cornell’s defense. Night after night, he answered any doubters with big saves at key times. On those rare occasions when Cornell’s defense did break down, the sophomore goalie was there with a pad or glove to keep the puck out of the net. He doesn’t face as many shots as most other goalies, but when he’s called on, he’s the best in the game.

Runner-Up: Dov Grumet-Morris, Harvard