The Edmonton Oilers and Philadelphia Flyers, two teams with distinct goaltending challenges, might find themselves vying for the same solutions as the NHL season approaches. Both teams face uncertainty in net, albeit for different reasons, potentially leading them to explore similar options on the trade market or free agency.
For the Oilers, the issue is performance-based. Despite boasting Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, their Stanley Cup aspirations have been hampered by inconsistent goaltending. Stuart Skinner, currently penciled in as the starter, has shown promise but also vulnerability, particularly in the playoffs. Calvin Pickard, hisbackup, is viewed as an unreliable option for a team with championship aspirations. General Manager Stan Bowman's decision to prioritize other roster needs over a proven goaltending upgrade has further intensified the spotlight on this position. The Oilers' recurring "goalie nightmare" might force them into a "desperation trade". Names like John Gibson and Cam Talbot of the Detroit Red Wings, Semyon Varlamov of the New York Islanders, and Connor Ingram of the Utah Mammoth have been mentioned as potential targets.
The Flyers' situation is more complex. The departure of Carter Hart due to off-ice issues has created a void. While the Flyers have attempted to address this through a tandem approach with Sam Ersson, Ivan Fedotov, and the addition of Dan Vladar, uncertainty remains. Coach John Tortorella has openly expressed his concern about the team's goaltending situation, highlighting the lack of a clear-cut number one. The Flyers' overall save percentage has been among the league's worst, underscoring the severity of their problem.
One intriguing possibility that could see the Oilers and Flyers directly competing is the potential return of Carter Hart to the NHL. Despite his legal issues, Hart's talent remains undeniable, and both teams could view him as a solution if he is cleared to play. The Flyers, who once considered Hart their franchise cornerstone, might be interested in a reunion, especially with a crowded but unsettled goaltending situation. However, they may prefer Hart to prove himself in the AHL first.
The Oilers, desperate for an upgrade in net, could offer Hart a more immediate opportunity. However, signing Hart would be a polarizing move, especially given the "pressure cooker" environment of a Canadian market. Some analysts believe that the Oilers aren't considering Hart. Despite the controversy, some argue that Hart is the best goaltender the Oilers could acquire at no cost to their roster.
Ultimately, whether the Oilers and Flyers will indeed battle for a goaltending solution hinges on several factors, including Hart's availability, the performance of their current netminders, and the willingness of other teams to part with established goalies. The trade market is reportedly thin, with few clear upgrades available. As the season approaches, both teams will be closely monitoring the situation, ready to pounce on any opportunity to solidify their goaltending.
