Entering his 19th NHL season, Goaltender Jonathan Quick is about to enter a whole new decade of his life and his playing career. On January 21, 2026, he will be turning the page on his 30s and entering his 40s.
Historically, there is a drop-off in performance by goaltenders who play in their 40s. With that said, the microscope will be on Quick this season, as he signed a one-year deal this offseason to try to be a successful backup to Igor Shesterkin.
After one preseason outing, it seems to be so far so good. But, looking at this upcoming regular season as a whole, there is an uncertainity about him, despite last season's success.
Let's talk about what we should expect from him after his short preseason stint thus far, and who could potentially replace him at some point this year if need be.
Quick could defy the odds
This season will be an interesting one for Quick. Many have tried to overcome Father Time, but have not been able to push their careers to the level of Jaromir Jagr or Brett Hull. Marc-Andre Fleury is probably the best example of a positive outcome to playing at an older age, as he is the only goaltender to record a shutout before hitting the age of 20 and over the age of 40.
If there are any other goalies that are currently playing, whether they are in the twilight of their careers or not, Quick can certainly defy the odds. Behind Shesterkin, who is now in his prime years, there is going to be an even wider margin between the two goaltenders in 2025-26. Last season saw a split of 61 starts for Shesterkin to 20 for Quick, followed by one start by Louis Domingue.
In a smaller sample size and with less strain on his body, Quick could be even better than he was last season.
Backing up "Quickie" is tricky
In the system, and already making an appearance in this preseason is Dylan Garand as the third-string goaltender. In the sole game, he allowed two goals on 15 shots against the New Jersey Devils. He seemed to be off his game, allowing some softies by him.
Garand is destined to once again be the number one goalie in Hartford, which was a great place for him last season. If he can put together another great season in the minors and put that lackluster effort in a meaningless hockey game behind him, there is a great chance for him to be Shesterkin's backup in 2026-27.