On Oct. 16, 2024, the London Knights traded a 14th round pick to the Barrie Colts for the rights to overage goaltender Austin Elliott.
It turns out that was a steal of a deal, when he posted a 32-1 record and a 2.10 goals against average (GAA) in the regular season. Add in another four wins in the playoffs, and he’s turning in a season never duplicated in the Ontario Hockey League.
“A lot of credit of course goes to the team in front of me,” said Elliott. “They make it a lot easier, but it’s been an amazing year. To be a part of a team like this, you know, not many people get that opportunity.”
Paired with rookie Alexei Medvedev, the two formed a dynamic duo. Medvedev was an impressive 22-8-2 in his first year, with a 2.79 GAA.
“Austin’s a great goalie partner and I’ve learned a lot to learn from him,” said Medvedev. “He’s been a big part of my success this year. I think we both had a really good year, and it worked out really nice for me.”
Now that the net belongs to Elliott (4-0 record in the sweep of Owen Sound) to start the playoffs, Medvedev needs to stay ready and sharp.
“It’s just kind of focus on the things I can control,” said Medvedev. “Work hard in practice, stay ready.”
Elliott admits he wasn’t as sharp as he’d have liked in the opening round against Owen Sound. He won all four games, but had a 3.00 GAA and a 8.68 save percentage.
“He wasn’t getting a lot of work (91 shots in four games) and it’s a testament to his mental focus,” said Dave Rook, Knights goalie coach. “There’s a couple of goals that he would like to have back, but that’s one thing with Austin, he’s very accountable. He knows the games are going to get tougher, the scoring chances are going to get tougher. So, he’ll be ready.”
Elliott believes his team will tighten up defensively against Erie and will “come ready to play.”
A year ago, his Saskatoon Blades finished in top spot in the Western Hockey League but failed to make it out of the Conference. He knows this Knights team may be his best shot at a title.
“From top to bottom, it’s crazy how good and how deep we are,” said Elliott. “I don’t think I’ll ever be on another team like this again.”
