The Calgary Flames came into the 2023 off-season with plenty of decisions to make regarding their top unrestricted free agents in 2024, but on top of that, they have some assets that they could move if they wish.
One of those top assets is goaltender Dan Vladar, who is likely to make way for arguably the best goaltending prospect in Dustin Wolf, so it makes sense if General Manager Craig Conroy looks to move him this off-season to pick up further assets for the future. According to a recent report from David Pagnotta, the 25-year old, coming off arguably the best season of his NHL career is drawing plenty of interest, but as of right now, Conroy appears to be patient as he waits for the right return on a goaltender with plenty of potential and a bright future ahead of him.
The #Flames have continued to generate interest in G Dan Vladar, and have received some offers for him, but so far Calgary is set on holding him unless they receive an offer that forces their hand.
— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) July 6, 2023
In 27 games this past season, Vladar put together a 14-6 record with a 2.83 GAA and an .895 save percentage, and after two shutouts the year prior in Calgary, it appears he could be a starter somewhere in the league, but with Markstrom ahead of him on the depth chart and a red-hot Dustin Wolf gunning for the NHL, he could be the odd man out. There has also been the suggestion of Calgary running three goaltenders this upcoming year, as Dustin Wolf can float between the AHL and NHL without the necessity of clearing waivers, but given that he’s proven everything he can in the AHL (winning back-to-back Goalie of the Year awards), it makes sense for the team to bring him up on a permanent basis.
Dan comes at a relatively cheap price too, as he is someone with 55 games of NHL experience under his belt, signing a two-year deal worth $4.4 million over the next two seasons, so if a team strapped for cap space needs a goalie that can potential start big games for them, he may be a solid option if he can be had for future assets.
According to the report however, Calgary are set on keeping Vladar unless a trade offer from another team ‘forces their hand’, and given what we’ve seen with the Elias Lindholm and Noah Hanifin situation thus far, we may be waiting a long time for the desired outcome on Vladar.
So what do you think Flames fans? Could Calgary run a three goalie squad next year with Wolf floating between the AHL and NHL? Do you want to see Vladar with the flaming ‘C’ once again? What do you think he’s worth in a trade? As always, let us know your thoughts in the comments below.