The Tampa Bay Lightning have recalled goaltender Kristers Gudlevskis from AHL Syracuse, according to beat reporter Joe Smith.
Ben Bishop has started each of Tampa’s first eight games, including yesterday’s overtime win over Winnipeg, so this move could mean that he won’t be playing tonight.
Would expect that Gudlevskis, called up from @SyracuseCrunch, starts tonight vs #Blackhawks. Bishop started first eight. No skate this AM
— Joe Smith (@JoeSmithNHL) October 24, 2015
Kevin Poulin, who was claimed on waivers from the Islanders, has served as Bishop’s backup, but only because Tampa Bay’s coaching staff wanted Gudlevskis to get regular playing time in the AHL.
If he does start, Gudlevskis will have the unenviable task of taking down the Chicago Blackhawks at the United Center.
The 23-year-old was Tampa’s fifth round pick, 124 overall, in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft.
He has one career start in the NHL and it came against Columbus during the 2013-14 season:
But most people will remember the Latvian goaltender from his terrific performance against Canada at the 2014 Winter Olympics.
UPDATE:
According to TVA Sports, the Tampa Bay Lightning placed Poulin on waivers.