Higgins Sets NLL Single-Season Save Record

Entering Sunday afternoon’s matchup with the Rochester Knighthawks, Zach Higgins was only 45 saves away from tying Anthony Cosmo’s NLL record of 752 saves in a season with one game to go. Higgins had averaged just about 39 saves per game through the first 17 games this season, and once again Higgins saw a lot of rubber. Ultimately, Higgins made 49 saves on 68 shots, setting a new NLL record with 757 saves in the 2023-2024 season.

“Higgy was our backbone all year” said Wings Head Coach & General Manager Paul Day, “he stood on his head and was surely our MVP for the season

Higgins was undoubtedly the Wings most consistent player this season. Although he only had 6 wins, Higgy was crucial in keeping the Wings competing in close games.  “He’s just the best,” said Higgins’ goalie partner, second year player Deacan Knott. Wings Captain Blaze Riorden had this to say about Higgins: “Zach Higgins is the backbone of our team. His preparation and the confidence he instills in our team is what keeps us in games. His leadership doesn’t come from talk but more from action. He’s the first to bail you out and the last to take credit. Zach continues to show why he is one of the best goaltenders in the NLL.”

Higgins will be looking to build off of this record setting season but still appreciative as he reflects on this achievement: “It’s pretty surreal to have achieved such a record in my career. I never imagined I would, but it feels awesome to have done it with this group. I love going out there with this team and trying my best for them. I wouldn’t be apart of it if it wasn’t for Paul and the coaching staff believing in me. So it feels pretty special to do this for them.”

Other than the big night for Zach Higgins, the final game of the year was not great for the Wings, as they lost 12-3. Mitch Jones led the Wings in scoring with two goals, and the Wings defense let up ten goals in the first half before locking things down in the 3rd and 4th quarters. Connor Fields had a gigantic night for the Knighthawks, potting seven goals and an assist in what would be a playoff clinching win for Rochester.