Neuvirth runner-up as top OHL goalie

Plymouth Whalers goaltender Michal Neuvirth finished second in this season’s Ontario Hockey League goaltender of the year voting, behind London goaltender Steve Mason.

Neuvirth, a second-round pick (34th overall) of the Washington Capitals, compiled a 2.32 goals-against average and led the OHL during the regular season with a .932 save percentage. Along with Jeremy Smith, the Whalers led the OHL in team defense this season in allowing 173 goals over 68 games.

Mason posted an impressive 45-13-1-3 record, along with a 3.20 goals against average and a .914 save percentage, in 62 games this season. Mason was instrumental in leading the Knights to their fourth consecutive Hamilton Spectator Trophy, along with the teams fourth consecutive Holody Trophy Midwest Division Championship. Mason’s 45 regular season wins is a new OHL record amongst goaltenders.

Mason received 76 points in the voting process, followed by Neuvirth, who received 43 points. Thomas McCollum of the Guelph Storm finished third with 28 points.