Ex-Bruins Goaltender Stuck In Mess Of Situation with New Team
The Calgary Flames find themselves in a unique goaltending situation, and it's a positive conundrum to have. With three NHL-caliber goaltenders in the mix, but only two spots available on the roster, decisions need to be made.
The current incumbents, Dan Vladar, a former Bruins goalie, and Jacob Markstrom, have held their ground, but the emergence of Dustin Wolf has created a compelling challenge. Wolf's remarkable achievements, including being the AHL MVP, a two-time AHL Goalie of the Year, and an impressive record with the Calgary Wranglers last season, have not gone unnoticed.
New GM Craig Conroy is open to the idea of trading one of the incumbents, with Vladar appearing as the most likely candidate due to his affordable $2.2 million cap hit. However, if a trade doesn't materialize, Conroy faces a significant decision. It seems that decision has been made, as without a trade, Wolf is slated to return to the AHL. His waiver exemption status works against him, complicating matters for the 22-year-old.
Conroy emphasized the importance of a young goaltender getting playing time, rather than simply observing from the bench during practice. While Vladar and Markstrom have displayed sharp performances in previous years, Conroy is aware that circumstances can change. He acknowledged, "things happen," and mentioned the potential for injuries on other teams as an opportunity to explore all options.
Interestingly, injuries have indeed struck other teams, with the Tampa Bay Lightning losing Andrei Vasilevskiy for 8-10 weeks and the Colorado Avalanche beginning the season without Pavel Francouz.
Conroy's phone may already be buzzing with inquiries, as the Flames navigate their goaltending puzzle.
As seen on nhltraderumors
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