VIDEO: Ivan Fedotov’s Epic First NHL Save

 It took nine years for Ivan Fedotov to make his debut in net for the Philadelphia Flyers. But it only took a few minutes for him to earn his first standing ovation from Philly fans. The newly-arrived goaltender took over for a shaky Sam Ersson to start the second period Monday night, and his very first save as a Flyer was nothing less than this epic breakaway stop:

Flyers fans absolutely ROARING for Fedotov’s first NHL save pic.twitter.com/bA2VoxfyrI

— Spittin' Chiclets (@spittinchiclets) April 2, 2024

The 6'7" Russian stood his ground as the New York Islanders' offensive threat Mat Barzal was sprung for a breakaway; Fedotov stopped it with his glove and then covered up.

Ersson surrendered two questionable goals on six shots in the first period, prompting the goaltending change by head coach John Tortorella.

The Flyers didn't exactly play their best period in the 2nd in front of Fedotov either, but he had the advantage, as noted by Flyers beat writer Charlie O'Connor, in that "the Isles clearly had no idea how to attack (him). There's no tape on him, & he's huge. Complete unknown."

Story of the period is Ivan Fedotov's NHL debut, and frankly, he looked great. About as good as one could reasonably expect him to look, given the circumstances.

Flyers just didn't give him enough help, and as a result, they're down 3-2. Because of the skaters, not Fedotov.

— Charlie O'Connor (@charlieo_conn) April 2, 2024

The Flyers did their best to block shots for their new netminder, but they simply didn't have enough puck possession. 

Fedotov came to Philadelphia just last week to make his long-awaited NHL debut, after spending most of the season defying an IIHF ruling made last fall by playing in the KHL with CSKA after the international body ruled that his then-new contract with the Russian team should be voided and he should be Flyers property for 2023-24. 

All's well that ends well, as Fedotov has finally escaped the Russian team's clutches, and looks like a new secret weapon for the Flyers as they scramble to try to get into the playoffs. 

Photo: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports