Lundqvist is 33 now, and loads of fans in NY have started saying that he is slowing down for the type of game he plays (supposedly has always played deep in his net and relies on his lightning quick reflexes). If that is true, then NYR makes sense for an up and coming goalie to sign with that team. Talbot is good though.
The biggest danger is being stuck behind someone like Price or Rask - young and without a doubt the 'franchise' goalie that would be incredibly hard to displace within a few years. I think most goalies coming out of the NCAA know they will probably spend time in the AHL, but it is another thing when the best you can hope for is injuries giving you a chance one day regardless of how well you are doing.
O'Connor will get that chance in Calgary, Edmonton, Buffalo and a few other teams for sure. Ottawa is arguable - the Hamburgler has been absolutely lights-out, but there have been a number of goalies that enter the league and look that way, and then never seem to get established as a bona fide starter. Lalime is a prime example of that.
Even the "can't miss" types often miss, so teams that are deep and ranked really high organizationally aren't guaranteed anything. For example, guys like Markstrom, Lindback, Pogge, etc. I don't think O'Connor would be looking at Calgary with Ortio, Gillies and Ramo and thinking: "That is too much depth". He will probably look at it as "Nobody has claimed the starter's job there, and I will get the chance to do so". I didn't count Hiller as he is older and has only another year - I think everyone views him as a stop-gap for now with an expiry date coming at least within the next few seasons (and even if Calgary re-signs him past next year).
Just hope the kid realizes that going to Edmonton might mean his career gets screwed up, regardless of any promises management might make.
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