REPORT: Blockbuster Trade Between Devils And Flames Leaked By Insider
The Calgary Flames are clearly going through a rebuild and many are wondering who's next in line to be traded. Speculation is rife that goaltender Jacob Markstrom could be the next player on the move. With veteran names like Tyler Toffoli, Nikita Zadorov, and Elias Lindholm already traded this season, rumors are swirling around Chris Tanev and Noah Hanifin as well, but Markstrom seems to be the focal point now.
Blockbuster Trade Between Devils And Flames Leaked By Insider
Reports from TSN Flames insider Salim Nadim Valji suggest that Markstrom's demeanor during pre-game warmups hinted at a sense of finality in his tenure with the team.
Since then, fans have been bracing for his departure, especially after rumors of a potential trade to the New Jersey Devils surfaced. However, NHL insider David Pagnotta revealed the details of the failed trade, indicating that discussions could be revisited before the deadline.
Separate sources confirmed the Devils would send forward Alexander Holtz back in a trade with between $2 million and $3 million of Markstrom's of annual cap hit retained. Markstrom is being paid $8 million in actual salary this season, and $6 million in each of the next two seasons, which includes a $2.5 million lump sum bonus payment each year. In order to make this move work, the two teams are going to have to figure out how to even out the dollars in some fashion.
According to another source, Devils netminder Vitek Vanecek was not going back to Calgary in the initial trade. The Flames plan on moving forward with Dustin Wolf and Dan Vladar between the pipes if Markstrom is moved.
With the expectation that the Devils and Flames revisit talks and try to make things work ahead of the deadline, Fitzgerald has been evaluating other options.
Markstrom, while not actively seeking a trade, has acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his future. Despite his preference to stay focused on the game, he's aware of the ongoing speculation and remains open to possibilities if deemed necessary by the team management.
«Whatever direction they want to go, and what they want to do, I'm not going to force anything," he said in that same interview with Francis.
«I'm not going to go up and meet and ask for a trade either. I'm here to play, I'm enjoying every day and we've got a great group.»
While Markstrom maintains a positive attitude amidst the trade talks, his commitment to the Flames remains steadfast until any official decisions are made.
Do you think he will get moved to New Jersey?
| POLL | ||
23 FEVRIER | 263 ANSWERS REPORT: Blockbuster Trade Between Devils And Flames Leaked By Insider Do you think Markstrom will end up in New Jersey? | ||
| Yes | 128 | 48.7 % |
| No | 135 | 51.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
