NHL Trade Talk: October 14, 2014
Because of the salary cap hockey world, and the abundance of quality goalies, a few quality veteran goalies have been left unemployed. Martin Bordeur, Tomas Vokoun, and Ilya Bryzgalov are all at home watching hockey and waiting for a team to call them.
Martin Brodeur
The Hall of Fame is waiting for him to retire, but when will it happen. He is by far the biggest name goalie that is a free agent, but I believe he is probably the least likely to find a team to finish the year with. The options are very limited for Brodeur, and his play has been very suspect. He will always be remembered as one of the greats, but his time to retire has come. I do not see Brodeur getting the opportunity he is hoping for, to play for a cup contender. It is time to retire, and you will always be remembered as one of the greats.
Tomas Vokoun
Although he is one of the oldest goalies available his recent injury troubles have limited his opportunities. Last season he missed most of the season with blood clot issues. He is intent on playing, but is hoping to find the right situation to thrive in. He may be a good fit for a team looking to find a veteran to mentor a young goalie. I just have a hard time believing that a team will give him a chance based on his recent injury troubles.
Ilya Bryzgalov
The Minnesota Wild gave him a preseason tryout this year, but ended up releasing him. He was actually very good for the Wild last season, and may be a player they will regret letting go if goaltender issues do not start to work out for them this season. He is by far the best veteran goalie looking for a new home, but teams are very hesitant to sign him. Last season he split time between Minnesota and Edmonton, and posted an impressive .923 save percentage. I really thought that Winnipeg would be a great new home for him, but that did not happen. He is a very interesting, and sometimes off the wall guy, but I do think he could help a few teams. I look at him getting signed again this year, and the hockey world shaking their heads again.
Brad Burud the owner/editor of the Inside Edge Hockey News. I am a huge fan of hockey, from youth hockey, to junior hockey, and of course professional hockey. I have played, coached, worked as statistician, and watched hockey all of my life. Hockey is not just a game, it is a lifestyle and family. The game of hockey is great! It can bring you nights of great enjoyment. It also brings nights where you feel like your team will never win. I am proud to be a journalist for the greatest game in the world. I have a degree in Business Administration, Psychology from Minot State University. I also have a Hockey General Manager and Scouting, and Sports Communications/Journalism degree from Sports Management Worldwide. I am also a member of the Sports Executives Association. Most of all I am a fan. Hockey is a huge part of my life and my families life.