Devin Cooley is giving Calgary Flames head coach Ryan Huska plenty to smile about, and his growing popularity now extends far beyond hockey.
The 29-year-old goaltender has become an unexpected internet sensation thanks to his unusual postgame interviews, which have now attracted attention connected to Joe Rogan's massively popular podcast.
Cooley isn't delivering the standard hockey answers. Instead, he's discussing consciousness, instinct, mental performance and the way his brain processes pressure during games.
His comments have generated widespread interest, with his philosophical approach to goaltending reaching audiences who wouldn't normally follow the Calgary Flames.
"Devin Cooley's going to be the first goalie to go on Joe Rogan"
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The attention comes during an impressive stretch between the pipes. Cooley has won four consecutive starts, allowing just six goals during that run.
After surrendering seven goals against the Colorado Avalanche earlier this month, he's responded with performances that have strengthened his case for a bigger role in Calgary's crease.
Following a 34-save performance against the Carolina Hurricanes on October 18, Cooley explained how consciously thinking about his movements can actually slow his reactions.
His approach is straightforward: trust the unconscious mind, stop analyzing every situation and allow the body to react naturally.
Those comments helped turn an ordinary postgame media session into a viral discussion about the mental demands of professional sports.
Cooley has also spoken openly about handling sudden internet fame, admitting that the overwhelming attention forced him to turn off his phone.
Through six appearances this season, the Flames netminder owns a 4-2-0 record, a 2.67 goals-against average and a .915 save percentage.
His connection to discussions surrounding The Joe Rogan Experience has raised the possibility of a future podcast appearance, although no official invitation or booking has been confirmed.
For Huska and the Flames, the more immediate development is happening on the ice. Cooley is delivering results while becoming one of hockey's most talked-about personalities.
And if his current form continues, Calgary could have an interesting goaltending decision ahead, regardless of whether Cooley eventually sits down with Rogan.
Should Devin Cooley become the Calgary Flames' starting goaltender if his winning streak continues?
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