We're in a tough spot for spending assets on goalies. I like the idea of a stop gap for a C level prospect, then chase in free agency.
If we were to again spend significant assets for another goalie, it scares me to add up the number of assets spent since Elliott first arrived. Thats a lot of draft picks for crap goaltending.
On the other side of it, I hope Treliving is doing 2 things. 1) Combing the market for alternatives. 2)Doing an in-depth analysis of what the heck has happened to Smith.
His body isnt breaking down like most players who age. Its all mental. Have the equipment changes made that big of a difference? Or has he just flat out, lost it?
Say what you will about his accomplishments throughout his career. But he was a clear cut #1 goalie in this league. A pretty good one too. Historically, how many former #1s, who are now out of the league, how did they go out? Did they go physically before they went mentally? Injuries?
How much appetite do the Flames have to let Smith find his mojo?
On the Rittich side of things, I wouldn't be surprised if they're trying to protect him, rather than just let him run with it. Rittich has been pretty good, not great but pretty good. Except for when Smith got injured and the Flames playoff hopes rested on Rittich and Gillies' shoulders.
I was never under the impression that Smith was going to win the Vezina, but I at least hoped for average goaltending. I definitely didn't see the tire fire that we're witnessing now.
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