The Pittsburgh Penguins are doing themselves no favours in the playoff race as they are nine points out with some games in hand. Those games mean nothing if they go to waste on losses, but teams are interested to see if the Penguins would move one of Tristan Jarry or Alex Nedeljkovic before the deadline this season. Seeing how Jarry recently got a contract extension, Nedeljkovic, who is a UFA after the season, is the likely trade candidate. These are three teams he could end up playing for in a few weeks.
Edmonton Oilers
The Edmonton Oilers have been reeling since their 16-game win streak came to an end. While there are a few upgrades needed to the team, goaltending may actually be one of them. Calvin Pickard has done well, winning six of his seven previous starts, but wouldn’t be trusted to lead the Oilers through playoffs if need be or even split the starts the rest of the way. Nedeljkovic has that proven ability to do so and has been a starter. His numbers are much better than both Stuart Skinner’s and Pickard’s and his cap hit is low. He would be a cost-effective upgrade for the Oilers if the Penguins sell.
Colorado Avalanche
The Colorado Avalanche haven’t gotten the goaltending they had hoped for this season. Not only has Alexandar Georgiev made it a bit tough to win low-scoring games since he has a sub-.900 SV%, they don’t have any secondary options. Pavel Francouz was injured to begin the season and won’t play in 2023-24, Ivan Prosvetov was picked up on waivers and didn’t work out, and now the Avalanche are relying on their prospect, Justus Annunen, to start here and there.
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This not only gives Georgiev nearly no games to rest in a tight race for the division, but there is nobody to lean on during a tough stretch or if an injury occurs. Colorado has some cap space to work with and this would be a necessary upgrade before the deadline.
New Jersey Devils
There were high expectations for the New Jersey Devils this season and they have failed to come close to any of them. Their season is not over though as there is time to still get in. With a healthy roster and a goaltender to contribute in a positive way, the Devils could surprise if they do end up in the postseason. While the team has cap space, it will cost a lot to acquire some of the top available goaltenders this season. Nedeljkovic is a more cost-effective option for an uncertain team as all three of the goalies have struggled this season.
