If The Calgary Flames hadn’t traded former Vezina Trophy runner-up Jacob Markstrom to the New Jersey Devils this summer, there would be a clear No. 1 in net. Because they did, there is a significant void in their goaltending, at least when it comes to a proven starter.
While the hope seems to be that Dustin Wolf will grow into that role as early as this season, Flames GM Craig Conroy has made it clear that the starting goalie position is up for grabs during training camp.
Speaking to Sportsnet’s Eric Francis, Conroy said, “With Marky gone, the job is wide open, and these guys know this is as good an opportunity as they’re ever going to have to show what they can do and become an NHL starter.”
The Flames will be asking a lot of these goaltenders, as well. Having moved some key pieces on defense, it’s expected the Flames might give up some shots this season. Not expected to be contenders, all three goalies are in for some long evenings.
Who Is Up For the Flames Starting Job?
It remains to be seen how intense the competition will be, with experienced backup Daniel Vladar, AHL standout Dustin Wolf, and prospect Devin Cooley all vying for the role.
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Vladar, who has backed up Markstrom for the past three seasons, holds the most NHL experience but is recovering from hip surgery and has struggled with a .894 save percentage over those three seasons. He’s got one more season remaining on a $2.2 million contract and this is a big year for him.
Meanwhile, Wolf, who has been excellent in the AHL, seems ready to take the next step in the NHL. He’s won the AHL’s Goaltender of the Year award twice and boasts a .926 save percentage over 141 AHL games. The Flames have big dreams when it comes to Wolf and everyone seems ready to see him take on more responsibility.
Cooley is the long-shot of the group, with only six NHL games on his resume and a .870 save percentage over those six games. But, he’s got some strong ECHL numbers, and that NHL sample size is way too small to write him off just yet.
While Wolf appears to be the frontrunner, Conroy’s open-minded approach suggests a possible 1A and 1B situation. Vladar and Wolf could split duties as Calgary aims to see who steals the role and forces the organization’s hand.
It should be an intriguing storyline to watch develop throughout training camp and with the team this season. And, if no one takes on the role, it could be a long year for the Flames.
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