Quote:
Originally Posted by Flash Walken
I actually think there are 2 questions that need asking in regards to goaltending.
Is the Goaltending the flames have now good enough to make the playoffs with improvements to the rest of the roster? I think it is.
Is the Goaltending the flames have now good enough to contend for the Stanley Cup with improvements to the rest of the roster? I don't think it is.
I think in regards to a rebuild, elite goaltending is a quality that should be added towards the end of a rebuild if possible because it is often the hardest thing to identify in young players and is often costly in terms of cap.
I think if you added a top 6 RW and a legit top 4 defender to this current Flames roster (and subtracted Wideman), Elliott/Johnson is a good enough tandem to get you to the playoffs. No one would confuse you with a contender, but you'd be ahead of the oilers and canucks in the standings.
I would consider re-signing both goalies but especially Johnson. He's arguably been worse than Elliott but I think he's adequate and will have the lightest impact on the cap.
2-3 years from now is when you need to have an elite goalie in place. That's enough time for a goalie prospect or two to take the position over, or to make it clear the team needs to look outside the organisation.
Right now they need a guy who will give them a chance to win every night if he gets the goal support. Eventually if they want to be a cup champion they'll need a goalie who can shut the door when he isn't getting the goal support.
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Johnson's .913 SV% vs Elliot's .895 begs to differ.
But I do think Johnson's poor performances have been worse than Elliott's. Still, overall, he's been better. And I too would resign him. He's a great option for a backup at the very least.