Hill relishing breakout postseason: 'Most fun I've ever had playing hockey'
Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Adin Hill was a long shot to make an impact these playoffs, but he's soaking in the spotlight after carrying his club within two wins of the Stanley Cup.
"It's probably been the most fun I've ever had playing hockey," Hill said after Monday's Game 2 victory, according to Vince Sapienza of FOX5 Las Vegas. "Just enjoying it, cherishing every day. ... It's been awesome being part of this journey with this team."
Hill took over between the pipes after Laurent Brossoit was injured in Game 3 of the second round against the Edmonton Oilers. He's since thrust himself into the Conn Smythe conversation with a 9-3 record, .937 save percentage, and two shutouts in his first taste of the NHL postseason.
The 27-year-old has already produced multiple signature moments in the Stanley Cup Final. Hill sent the Vegas crowd into a tizzy in Game 1 with an unforgettable stick save, then drew even more affection Monday night when he got into it with Florida Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk.
Adin Hill and Matthew Tkachuk going at it 👀 pic.twitter.com/tkUKrAzIhF
— Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) June 6, 2023
"Staying calm and neutral is good, but if guys are coming to the net and stuff, you have to stand your own ground," Hill said. "It shows your 'D' that they don't always have to do it for you. I like our team all year, we've been disciplined, but we stand up for each other."
The Golden Knights acquired Hill from the San Jose Sharks for a fourth-round pick in August. Vegas sought extra depth in the crease after ruling Robin Lehner out for the season due to hip surgery.
Hill started 27 games in the regular season - a career high - and went 16-7-1 with a .915 save percentage.
He'll become an unrestricted free agent on July 1.