With the NHL Trade Deadline just around the corner, the anticipation is mounting as teams gear up to make bold moves. Among the most intriguing possibilities are the potential trades involving goaltenders. In this article, we delve deeper into the surprising trade scenarios surrounding five goalies, including the highly sought-after Jake Allen.
1. Jake Allen: Montreal Canadiens’ Unexpected Trade Candidate
Jake Allen, the Montreal Canadiens’ goaltending asset, has found himself at the center of trade talks. Despite Montreal’s initial reluctance to part ways with him, the team may ultimately decide to deal Allen. As a reliable NHL backup goalie with the ability to step up as a starter, Allen’s presence could bring stability to teams struggling with inconsistent goaltending. With an affordable contract of $3.85 million for this year and the next, Allen becomes an attractive option for many playoff-bound teams.
2. Marc-Andre Fleury: A Living Legend’s Last Hurrah?
The potential departure of Marc-Andre Fleury from the Minnesota Wild has sent shockwaves through the league. As a future Hall of Famer, Fleury’s decision to possibly wrap up his illustrious career with a new team has raised eyebrows. With the Wild currently outside the playoff picture, Fleury’s playoff experience and exceptional skills make him an enticing target for teams in need of a reliable goaltender. The Edmonton Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Carolina Hurricanes are among the potential suitors who could benefit from Fleury’s presence.
3. Jack Campbell: Edmonton Oilers’ Cap Space Chess Move
Jack Campbell’s unexpected inclusion on the trade radar has caught many by surprise. After signing a five-year deal to be the Edmonton Oilers’ starting goalie, Campbell’s struggles have resulted in a demotion to the AHL. However, if traded, it would likely be a strategic move by the Oilers to free up valuable cap space for other acquisitions and strengthen their roster for the playoff push.
Workin on the weekend like usual 😮💨#mnwild pic.twitter.com/Q8vAI3kz43
— Minnesota Wild (@mnwild) January 21, 2024
4. Jacob Markstrom: Calgary Flames’ Elite Trade Asset
Jacob Markstrom, one of the NHL’s premier goaltenders, finds himself in a precarious position with the Calgary Flames. As the Flames currently sit outside of a playoff spot, trade rumors surrounding Markstrom have gained momentum. While his $6 million annual salary until 2025-26 may pose challenges for a deadline trade, his exceptional skills and long-term availability make him an attractive option for teams willing to make a substantial investment. However, the likelihood of a Markstrom trade may be higher during the off-season when teams have more flexibility to maneuver.
5. Elvis Merzlikins: Columbus Blue Jackets’ Requested Departure
Elvis Merzlikins has made it clear that he seeks a fresh start away from the Columbus Blue Jackets. This revelation has put the Blue Jackets in a position where they may have to consider trading their talented goaltender. Merzlikins’ $5.4 million salary until 2026-27 could be a deterrent for some teams, but Columbus might be willing to retain a portion of it to facilitate a trade. At the age of 29, Merzlikins has the potential to become a starting goaltender for teams like the Carolina Hurricanes and New Jersey Devils, who are in dire need of a reliable netminder.
Editors Insight’s
As the NHL Trade Deadline looms, the goaltender trade market is heating up, promising unexpected twists and turns. Jake Allen, Marc-Andre Fleury, Jack Campbell, Jacob Markstrom, and Elvis Merzlikins are all marquee names that could find themselves in new surroundings. The impact of these potential trades on playoff-bound teams cannot be underestimated, as the addition of a reliable goaltender can be a game-changer. With the countdown to the deadline ticking away, the hockey world eagerly awaits the final outcome of these controversial trade rumors.
