The Carolina Hurricanes are reportedly in the market for a goaltender, and their attention has shifted to Calgary Flames netminder Dan Vladar after missing out on Mackenzie Blackwood.
The Hurricanes were reportedly interested in acquiring Blackwood from the San Jose Sharks, but the Colorado Avalanche swooped in and made the trade before Carolina could make a move. Now, according to NHL insider Pierre LeBrun, the Hurricanes are looking at Vladar as a potential backup to starter Pyotr Kochetkov.
LeBrun reports that the Hurricanes are interested in Vladar, and rumors suggest he could be available if the Flames fall out of playoff contention. This makes sense considering the Flames already have a promising young goalie in Dustin Wolf and a potential future starter in AHL affiliate Devin Cooley.
Calgary Flames Currently in Playoff Hunt
The Flames are currently one point behind the Colorado Avalanche for the final Wild Card spot in the Western Conference. Calgary has played better than many NHL analysts predicted this season, boasting a 14-11-5 record. However, their playoff hopes are still uncertain, and if they do fall out of the race, Vladar could be a valuable trade chip.
Vladar has been average for the Flames this season, with a 3.08 goals-against average and a .885 save percentage. The 27-year-old Czech goaltender has shown promise as a reliable backup and could be an excellent addition to the Hurricanes’ roster.
It’s worth noting that the Hurricanes have a history of acquiring talented goaltenders who have flown under the radar. They picked up Frederik Andersen and Antti Raanta in free agency, both of whom have exceeded expectations in Carolina. Could Vladar be the next diamond in the rough?
The Hurricanes’ interest in Vladar suggests they are committed to building a strong goaltending tandem to support their Stanley Cup aspirations. With Kochetkov as the starter and Vladar as a reliable backup, the Hurricanes would have a formidable duo between the pipes.
As the NHL trade deadline approaches, the Hurricanes’ pursuit of Vladar will be an interesting storyline to follow. If the Flames continue to struggle, expect Carolina to make a strong push to acquire the young goaltender.
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