After Signing unrestricted free agent Jeff Hackett, the off season before, Atlanta thought they were set in goal for a couple of seasons. Hackett played great the whole season helping Atlanta contend for a playoff spot which they lost. In the off season Hackett was out of shape and would not be able to be the starter so Brian Blake went after arguable the best goalie in the CTCHL in Arturs Irbe. Arturs received a hug offer and signed with Atlanta. The year before he played for the Ottawa Senators where he won the Vezina trophy as the leagues top goaltender as well as the Jennings trophy for the lowest goals against for a team's goalies. That is two major awards in one season. Arturs had a phenomenal season posting a 38-18-3 record in 61 games while leading the league in shutouts with 8. He lead the league in save percentage that year.
