NHL Free Agency Overview
The recent NHL free agency period, particularly with respect to goaltenders, failed to generate significant excitement. A considerable portion of the netminders who became available on July 1 were anticipated to be mere backups, and the most sought-after keeper, Jake Allen, preemptively extended his contract with New Jersey before the official market opened, further diminishing enthusiasm for the class of 2024. On the positive side, a total of 16 goalies signed new deals on the first day, with a cumulative worth of $61.75 million, and three were traded in the week leading up to free agency.
Winners and Losers of Goaltending Activity
The initial day on the market yielded mixed results as teams responded differently to their goaltending needs. While some franchises shrewdly enhanced their netminding depth, others appeared passive, missing out on valuable opportunities to improve. This analysis delves into the notable winners and losers from the recent flurry of goaltending activity.
Significant Winners
Starting with the significant winners, the Vancouver Canucks made headlines by securing a three-year contract extension worth $8.5 million annually for their star goalie, Thatcher Demko. This decision comes despite earlier speculations that he might be traded following an injury-plagued season where he participated in just 23 games and struggled to regain his former elite form. By locking him into a contract that positions him among the league’s highest-paid goalies when it kicks in during the 2026-27 season, the Canucks aim to affirm their commitment to Demko, whose skills and stature are rare assets in today’s league. However, this deal poses a risk, as Demko’s injury history could complicate matters for the team’s salary cap, projecting $13 million to be spent on goaltending in the near future.
Meanwhile, New Jersey’s acquisition of Jake Allen stands out. The Devils made a savvy move by securing Allen to a five-year, $1.8 million contract before the doors to free agency even opened. As the most prominent goalie available, he could have likely fetched a higher price elsewhere; however, he has opted to remain in New Jersey, which aims to maintain a competitive goalie tandem. Under Allen’s watchful performance—evident through his impressive 19.07 GSAx (goals saved above expected)—he provides reliable support to Jacob Markstrom, who has been battling to reach 50 starts over the last two seasons. His presence ensures that New Jersey’s goaltending responsibilities are well managed and can reduce Markstrom’s workload.
Notable Trades and Emerging Talent
On a related note, the Columbus Blue Jackets executed a less celebrated move by trading goalie Daniil Tarasov to Florida for a fifth-round pick. Although Tarasov was a third-round selection in 2017, he struggled in his tenure with a disappointing .898 save percentage. The trade offers him a chance to recommence with a robust Panthers roster under the mentorship of veteran goalie Sergei Bobrovsky, who coincidentally has ties to Tarasov’s family heritage, having once watched his father play in Russia.
Another intriguing aspect of this offseason is the emergence of goalie Jet Greaves from the Blue Jackets’ shadows. Having demonstrated notable skills in the AHL with the Cleveland Monsters, Greaves’ performance could pave the way for him to secure a starting role in the NHL by 2025-26.
Losers of the Offseason
Conversely, the Edmonton Oilers, despite their pressing goaltending needs after their recent playoff disappointments, did not take action during this free agency period, choosing to stick with their current duo of Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard. This decision has sparked criticism, especially since significant options were at hand, such as John Gibson, who moved to Detroit. The Oilers’ cautious stance might lead to further issues as they head into the upcoming season with uncertainties surrounding their crease.
On the other hand, the Detroit Red Wings made a bold trade acquiring John Gibson. This move is pivotal for a club eager to progress past its rebuilding phase and re-establish its playoff contention. However, it creates an uphill challenge for promising goalie Sebastian Cossa to secure his place in the NHL given the presence of established players like Gibson and Cam Talbot.
Lastly, the Philadelphia Flyers ranked among the offseason losers, having suffered from abysmal goaltending last season. Despite the lack of superior options during this free agency period, their signing of Dan Vladar for $3.35 million annually raises questions. With Vladar’s record of subpar performance, the Flyers must find ways to fortify their goaltending if they wish to speed up their rebuilding efforts.
