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The Calgary Flames' biggest weakness heading into the off-season was goaltending.
Though that may not have been the case during their five-game playoff series against Colorado, goaltending was much more of an issue than offense or defense throughout the year.
A big reason for that was the play of Mike Smith. He appeared in more than half the games for a team that was elite at suppressing shots and quality chances. Still, the 37-year-old couldn't muster up even a .900 save percentage.
Among all goalies to play in at least 30 games, only Keith Kinkaid, Jonathan Quick and Martin Jones finished with a worse save percentage at 5v5. Keep in mind 48 goalies met the criteria.
That's why it makes sense to target an external option to pair with David Rittich, especially if Smith is unwilling to take a *massive* pay cut.
GM Brad Treliving is doing just that.
The Flames have reportedly expressed interest in UFA Cam Talbot. Not only that, they appear to be the favorites for his services.
I think Talbot would be a great buy-low option,
as I've outlined in the past.
As bad as 2018-19 was for him, he managed to post better 5v5 numbers than Smith playing almost entirely for a train-wreck of an Edmonton team.
The 6'4' netminder still owns a solid .915 save percentage for his career and he has provided competent (or above average) goaltending in five of his six NHL seasons. At just 31, he should have some gas left in the tank. Almost certainly more than Smith does.
I think he is a good bet to bounce-back in a steady environment, and the Flames would be able to provide him just that.
I don't know that Talbot will be a long-term solution – he'll probably only take a one or two-year deal on the cheap and hope he boosts his value – but I think he's a good option for now.
We'll see if the Flames can close a deal.
numbers via NaturalStatTrick.com
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