Washington Capitals: Top 30 Players In Franchise History

Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Olaf Kolzig

Coming in at number eight on our countdown of the greatest Washington Capitals players in franchise history is the best goalie that the Caps have ever had: Olaf “Olie” Kolzig. Kolzig holds virtually every franchise record in goaltending stats. He also holds the distinction of being the first South African goaltender in NHL history.

Kolzig played for the Caps for 16 seasons. In those 16 seasons, he played in 711 games. He ranks ninth in career games played with the Caps for all Caps players and ranks first among goaltenders. He ranks first in wins with 301. He ranks third in career save percentage (90.6%). He ranks fourth in goals against average with 2.70. He ranks first in shutouts with 35.

Kolzig wore number thirty-seven. Since he retired in 2009, no Capitals player has worn #37. While his number has not been officially retired, it has been sort of retired. Kolzig is still a fan favorite with the Capitals and is still involved in the organization. He served as their goaltender coach before the Caps brought in current goalie guru Mitch Korn.

Next: #7