The move to acquire Anderson created some depth issues for the franchise and the latest hockey news has the franchise looking for help between the pipes. With little left on the free agent market, speculation has begun on potential trade targets before the start of training camp.
Kristen Shilton has reported that several veterans could be pursued in the coming weeks, including Thomas Greiss of the NY Islanders. The veteran goalie is affordable with a contract calling for $1 million to be paid in the upcoming season, but after a terrific season in New York last year, he would be a great insurance policy if they lose their new net minder to injury.
The 30-year-old played 41 games last year for New York, including 38 starts and his 2.36 goals against average was outstanding. The former sixth round pick hasn’t played much in his seven years in the NHL, starting just 107 games with four different teams, but his career 2.44 goals against average and a save percentage at .917 makes it easy to see why trading with the Islanders makes sense, especially if it just costs the team a mid-round pick next year.
Toronto does have other options, including Keith Kinkaid of New Jersey and Reto Berra of Florida as all three backups have been reportedly put on the trading block, but for a team that will be younger next season and one looking to keep some room under the salary cap, Greiss is a solid option and the type of player that will give this team a good chance of winning whenever he’s put on the ice.
