Twist of events, and Cayden Primeau sacrificed by Kent Hughes? The young goalie could have a direct impact in Philadelphia, and Daniel Brière might pay a hefty price
Kent Hughes must trade a goaltender at all costs, and logic suggests it could be Jake Allen. The significant issue, however, is that the goaltender market is currently oversaturated, and Allen commands a hefty salary for another season.
Just take a look at the young goaltender Ivan Prosvetov, who went unclaimed in the draft and has similar statistics to Cayden Primeau. However, there's a crucial factor to consider�the NHL's 50-contract limit. The Canadiens are currently at 45 contracts, but not all teams have that flexibility.
Daniel Brière might have wanted to claim Prosvetov, especially with Carter Hart's loss, but the Flyers currently have 48 contracts and no salary cap space.
This is where a trade with the Canadiens for Cayden Primeau could make sense. As Renaud Lavoie mentioned on BPM Sports recently, Primeau grew up as a Flyers fan as his father, Keith, played there.
Brière could potentially offer one or more players to Hughes to reduce his salary cap and contract count while acquiring a replacement for Carter Hart.
Renaud's proposal, however, is not unique to the Flyers. Teams in playoff contention facing tight salary cap situations and high contract counts may find themselves in a similar position.
Kent Hughes has nearly $6.5 million in cap space and has managed his contracts well, giving him significant negotiating power. While the goaltender market may seem saturated due to players clearing waivers, the situation is not necessarily the same.
With many teams competing for playoff spots and numerous goaltender injuries, there will likely be movement in this area before the March 8 deadline.
| POLL | ||
Do you think Kent Hughes has significant negotiating power right now? | ||
| Yes | 406 | 80.4 % |
| No | 99 | 19.6 % |
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