Quote:
Originally Posted by Erick Estrada
If the team has to opt for Reimer I believe the team will also sign another goaltender to back him up for security. The only way I see Ortio back as the backup is if they blow their wad on a Bishop or MAF trade where they feel secure in their number one guy and are using a sizeable portion of their salary cap on him.
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I can't see Ortio set as the 3rd wheel for another year. Ortio needs to play to develop, just like any goalie. The way Hartley utilized Ortio (or didn't) was the kiss of death. Ortio improved when he was able to play consistently. Which brings me to the next point. The Flames will want Gillies to play consistently in the AHL to help develop his game. If Ortio is replaced, he either stays up, ruining development or goes to the AHL and splits time with Gillies. Which will inhibit both of their development. So I think we will see Ortio as the Flames backup for at least a year, likely two.
The other mystery is how the new adjustment to pads will affect goalie performance. The changes should be beneficial for athletic goalies. I have a feeling the change will be beneficial for Ortio, who plays a very athletic game. I think these new rules will help Ortio. I'd like to see what he can do with consistent time as a backup.