As the Calgary Flames defy early expectations with a strong start, their goaltending depth has become a key storyline. Rookie Dustin Wolf’s stellar play has elevated him into Calder Trophy consideration, making it clear that Dan Vladar, despite his strong performances, might be the odd man out.
Vladar, a pending unrestricted free agent, has rebounded from offseason hip surgery to deliver his best numbers in three seasons. Under normal circumstances, a team defying expectations wouldn’t consider trading a goaltender capable of contributing in the postseason. However, this is far from a typical situation.
The Flames might really defy the odds and make the playoffs. They still aren’t contenders. As such, keeping Vladar, when the better asset management move is to sell high makes little sense.
Vladar’s steady presence is the kind of thing teams who a Stanley Cup contenders look for. With Wolf becoming a star and Devin Cooley thriving in the AHL, the Flames are well-stocked in net for next season. Moving Vladar and getting a solid return helps Calgary in the long run.
It’s for this season that Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff recently listed Vladar 11th on his Trade Targets board.
He writes:
Very quietly, 23-year-old Dustin Wolf has entered the Calder Trophy conversation. And third goaltender Devin Cooley has been, well, on fire with a sterling .953 save percentage for the AHL’s Wranglers. That leaves Vladar as the obvious trade piece, now in the final year of his deal before becoming a free agent. He’s responded well following offseason surgery, putting up his best numbers in three seasons despite shouldering the tougher starts while Wolf finds his NHL footing.
Trading Vladar ahead of the NHL trade deadline could yield valuable assets for Calgary while allowing Wolf to take on a larger role. Cooley will eventually move up to the NHL and there simply isn’t room for three goalies.
With Vladar proving his worth in a contract year, the Flames have an opportunity to maximize his value. It only makes sense to do so.
