Quote:
Originally Posted by 1qqaaz
For me, the two biggest problems with Smith are:
1) He's one of the oldest goalies in the league
As far as I know, Luongo is the only Lundqvist are the only goalies that are older. They're both probably Hall of Famers, and even they have sharply declined in play.
2) He's really only had one 92%+ season in his career.
Compare that to Matt Murray, who hasn't been sub 92% at any level at any time since his third year in the OHL. Consistent save percentages are one of the most telling stats in hockey, regardless of the defense IMO. Schneider managed to maintain his play after being traded to a weaker New Jersey team. Rask remains a good goalie, even though Boston is no longer a contender. Talbot's strong save percentage is still quite strong, even between a weak Oiler defense. Elliott had a great save percentage, but it really wasn't consistent at all.
I am glad that some of the salary was retained. Smith's contract is fairly manageable now. The Flames may be able to do something in free agency. I also don't think the Flames gave up too much. Hickey's development has slowed a bit, and the second round pick would be pretty late.
I don't like the trade, but it won't be a disaster.
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Lundqvist has sharply declined in play, eh? He was unreal in the World Cup, he was unreal in the playoffs, and he was unreal wearing 35 at the WHC.
Anderson was just in the conference final, he's older than Smith. Pekka Rinne is a year younger. Tim Thomas won a Stanley Cup and a Vezina on the back half of his 30s. For two years, it's a minimal risk.