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The new mask of Syracuse Crunch goalie Kristers Gudlevskis features the design of a snarling tiger.

(Lindsay Kramer | LKramer@syracuse.com)

Syracuse, N.Y. — Kristers Gudlevskis' new mask is perfect.

Really, it's flawless. At least where it matters the most.

When asked to show off the gear after Syracuse Crunch practice at the War Memorial on Tuesday, Gudlevskis opened with the only review that matters: it's 1-0.

Gudlevskis broke in the mask against Rochester on Friday, and both he and the new look performed well in a Crunch win. So what more could you ask of it?

Gudlevskis said he gets one new mask a season and this one rolled into town last week. Its landscape is dominated by a large, menacing tiger that snarls at oncoming shooters. Tampa Bay Lightning bolts streak across each side.

But it was almost a design by default. Gudlevskis admitted he has run out of ideas for new looks and just decided to go with a mean-looking predator.

"I was out of ideas and I didn't know what to do. I said,'OK, maybe put some tiger on. It could look cool,'' he said. "It's pretty good. I like the teeth and everything. And I like animals.''

Gudlevskis said he's open to ideas for next year's mask, so if you've got a good suggestion let him know.