I like Talbot, and think he is a great option as a backup, and a decent option as a 1B guy. I don't think he is a starter, however, and at 33, he is declining.
I do think it would have been a decent move to sign him to a 2 year deal, as I am not sure the Flames really need a long-term solution now - but it depends on how long you figure Parsons and Wolf are away.
I still like the upside in Rittich - does a lot better on the high danger shots, but worse on the lower danger shots. It makes me think this is 'coachable'. I do think you need a quicker reaction time coupled with a higher degree of athleticism to make those high danger saves - especially those 2nd and 3rd shots off rebounds and scrambles. There is no teaching that - (well, except for Hasek who was famous for studying shot placements).
Rittich might still be traded though. If they sign Markstrom, the Flames may still trade Rittich out and go with a cheaper backup option. Who knows? Markstrom would probably carry term, and they can ride Parsons' and Wolfs' development a little longer, but it becomes tough to find them enough time in net in the AHL/ECHL (which is why I particularly like the Russian goalie draftee, as you don't need to worry about that).
Will be interesting to see where this whole goalie carousel stops.
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