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Lundqvist wanted to make All-Star team, will rest instead

Henrik Lundqvist

New York Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist (30) makes the save against the Edmonton Oilers during third period NHL hockey action in Edmonton, Alberta, on Sunday, Dec. 14, 2014. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Jason Franson)

AP

New York Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist told the New York Daily News that he wanted to make the 2015 NHL All-Star Game roster, yet he’s not using that “snub” as motivation, either.

“Not really,” Lundqvist said. “I’ve been planning not to go (to Columbus in late January), spend time with family and recharge. I feel like there are a lot of good goalies and the competition is tough, but I think about it. I want to be one of those guys, obviously. I see myself as a guy that can compete against the guys that are there, but at the same time there are guys having strong seasons right now.

It’s easy to see why Lundqvist isn’t totally heartbroken about this situation, especially since he’s probably been the most consistently “All-Star caliber” goalie in the NHL during the last decade or so. He’s made three teams, yet with how erratically the events have been happening lately, his frequently elite numbers argue that he doesn’t have much to prove.

Beyond that, one wonders how many players are secretly glad to get the break, even ones who don’t profess to planning exotic vacations like Joe Thornton did. Lundqvist, 32, noted that he’ll use the break to “recharge” and spend time with his family.

In a way, the Rangers are probably glad he didn’t make it, unless this disrupts his rhythm.

Lundqvist has been absolutely lights out since December 8, winning 11 of 12 games, pitching a shutout and allowing two goals or less in all but two contests.

After another slow start (5-3-0 with a troubling .891 save percentage in October), “The King” has ranked among the league’s best once again. He probably doesn’t need an All-Star nod to confirm that.

Follow James O’Brien @cyclelikesedins