Hildebeast adds his nickname to Leaf list of labels

To a team that’s had the China Wall, the Brick Woll, the Monster, plus Cujo, Trees and the Eagle all in goal, meet the Hildebeast. That’s the nickname of 6 foot 7 Dennis Hildeby, a riff on wildebeest and though that broad shouldered antelope is native to Africa, not Sweden, the lanky lad from the Stockholm suburbs is embracing his unusual handle since arriving in North America.

“I don’t really mind it,” he said after Monday’s first practice with the Maple Leafs. “It works for me.” On ice, he was getting lots of support from Leaf goalie coach Curtis Sanford and impressing teammates with his mobility in tandem with his 6 foot 7 frame. “Tough to score on him when he takes up so much of the net,” observed winger Noah Gregor.

“Seems like he’s pretty sound and not moving too much. “Both him and (Joseph) Woll are like that, not flailing around, though that works for some goalies.” Turk – Walter Broda (franchise leader in wins) China Wall – Johnny Bower Monster – Jonas Gustavsson Eagle – Ed Belfour Cujo – Curtis Joseph Cat – Felix Potvin Uke – Terry Sawchuk Apple Cheeks – Harry Lumley Jumpin’ Jake – Jake Forbes Popcorn Kid – Mike Palmateer Soupy – Jack Campbell Trees – Mark LaForest Mikey – Ken Wregget Ernie – Allan Bester lhornby@postmedia.