Former Vees goaltender Jack LaFontaine is up for some serious hardware this college hockey season.
The University of Minnesota net-minder was announced as one of 10 finalists for the Hobey Baker Award, handed out annually to the best collegiate hockey player.
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LaFontaine has been one of the best goaltenders to man the crease in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) this season, leading the University of Minnesota to 21 wins in his 27 appearances.
The Mississauga, Ont. native has compiled a 1.74 goals against average and a .936 save percentage in those 27 contests with five shutouts in his senior season with the Golden Gophers. The 23-year-old dons an ‘A’ on his jersey as well.
Lafontaine has accumulated numerous accolades throughout his final season of college hockey. The goaltender was named as a finalist for the Mike Richter Award, given to college hockey’s top goaltender, while also being named a nominee for the Senior CLASS Award.
LaFontaine recently helped Minnesota earn a Big Ten Championship while being named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player and making the All-Tournament team. LaFontaine was also named the Big Ten’s Best Goaltender as well as a First Team All-Star.
During his time in Penticton, LaFontaine played a key part in the 2018-19 campaign. He won 30 games with a 2.19 goals against average and a .923 save percentage with three shutouts as well in 45 games played with the Vees.
LaFontaine was drafted 75th overall by the Carolina Hurricanes National Hockey League organization in 2016.
The final three candidates for the Hobey Baker Award will be released April 1. The award winner will be named April 9.
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