Pete Fry Goalies of the Month - February 2026
- Mar 3
- 3 min read
The PF Goalies of the Month for February 2026
Each month, we recognize three goaltenders from the Goalie Mindset community who are performing at a high level and demonstrating what happens when preparation, confidence, and mindset come together in the crease.
For February, we’re recognizing Carter Esler, Damian Clara, and Easton Rye: three goaltenders making a major impact in their respective leagues.
Carter Esler - Spokane Chiefs (WHL)
February Stats: 8-1-0-0 1.78 GAA .931 SV%
Carter Esler had a dominant month of February and was recognized as the WHL Goaltender of the Month after posting an outstanding 8-1 record with a 1.78 goals-against average and .931 save percentage. He finished the month on a seven-game winning streak and provided Spokane with calm, reliable goaltending during a crucial stretch of the season.
Esler has quietly established himself as one of the most promising young goaltenders in major junior hockey. He is currently tied for first in the WHL in shutouts, and with his NHL Draft year approaching next season, performances like the one he delivered in February are putting him firmly on the radar of NHL scouts.
What stands out about Carter’s game right now is his composure. He plays with confidence, tracks the puck extremely well, and looks completely settled in high-pressure moments. When a goaltender can bring that kind of consistency night after night, it’s a sign that both the technical and mental sides of their game are in a very strong place.
Damian Clara - Italy (Olympics)
February Stats: 1-4-0-0 3.87 GAA .922 SV%
Damian Clara captured international attention during the 2026 Winter Olympics with one of the most impressive goaltending performances of the tournament. Facing a loaded Swedish roster filled with NHL talent, Clara turned aside 46 shots and delivered a performance that had the hockey world talking.
The 6’6” Italian netminder continues to develop in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), one of the top professional leagues outside the NHL, where he has been gaining valuable experience against elite competition. Clara is also a member of the Anaheim Ducks organization, after being selected by Anaheim in the 2023 NHL Draft, and is widely regarded as one of the most exciting goaltending prospects in international hockey.
What made his Olympic performance so impressive wasn’t just the number of saves — it was the way he handled the moment. Clara played fearless hockey, battled through heavy pressure, and stayed composed against world-class shooters. That type of poise on the international stage speaks volumes about his mindset and competitive drive.
Easton Rye - Peterborough Petes (OHL)
February Stats: 7-3-0-1 2.85 GAA .912 SV%
Easton Rye continued his strong season in February, delivering another stretch of dependable, high-level goaltending for the Peterborough Petes. Over the month he posted a 7-3-1 record, consistently giving his team a chance to win and showing the type of resilience that top goaltenders rely on throughout a long season.
Rye has been one of the workhorses of the Ontario Hockey League this year and currently leads the OHL in wins by a goaltender, a reflection of both his durability and his ability to deliver in key moments. His performance has also earned multiple OHL Goaltender of the Week recognitions during the season.
What stands out about Easton is the maturity in his game. He competes hard, stays composed under pressure, and continues to deliver night after night. That combination of consistency and mental toughness is what allows goaltenders to handle the heavy workload required at the junior level.
We’re proud to recognize Carter Esler, Damian Clara, and Easton Rye as our Goalies of the Month for February. Each of them demonstrated a different aspect of elite goaltending — consistency, composure, resilience, and the ability to rise to the moment.
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