The Utah Hockey Club goaltender was recalled from the AHL on Nov. 20 on a day-to-day basis but has stuck with the team for over a month. Stauber does not have a timeline for his NHL stint.“It would be nice to have a little bit clearer picture sometimes but that’s the nature of the business,” Stauber said. “In retrospect, you can look at it and say ‘Well, I’m just not looking past today.’ I think that really helps you stay grounded, keeps you focused on what you need to do today to be better.
Anaheim Ducks right wing Troy Terry shoots as defenseman Jackson LaCombe assists while Utah Hockey Club goaltender Jaxson Stauber defends with defenseman Ian Cole and center Logan Cooley during the second period of an NHL hockey game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Salt Lake City. “I didn’t have to be in the hotel at all which was nice,” Stauber said. “I have a kitchen and a laundry machine — kind of have some normalcy.”
Stauber suddenly has a second shot at making an impact in the big leagues. He’s been working closely with Utah goalie coach Corey Schwab to remain fresh between games and stretches without practice. As Utah prepared for a four-game road trip this week, Tourigny said Vejmelka would get the start Monday against the Kraken but that the team would use both of its goaltenders during the extended time away.
“I got to go home, have dinner with my family which is something I haven’t experienced before,” Stauber said.