Unraveling the Impact of a Goalie Trade on Two Teams

Nashville's Perspective

Nashville's decision to engage in this trade makes a certain amount of sense. When a team is facing underperformance, as Nashville is currently, such trades are not uncommon. This isn't a blockbuster deal by any means, but it holds value for them. By swapping a struggling Wedgewood for the younger and cheaper Annunen, along with a fifth round pick, Nashville is looking to inject some new life into their goaltending situation. However, one can't help but wonder about their long-term strategy. On August 23rd, they traded star goaltending prospect Yaroslav Askarov, believing they couldn't guarantee him NHL playing time. Now, just over three months later, an opportunity presents itself. It's a bit of a conundrum for the Predators.

Wedgewood, with his career.905 SV% and 3.01 GAA, was signed to a two-year, $1.5 million per contract this offseason. But he's had a rough start to the season, playing in five games with a.878 SV% and a 3.69 GAA. Annunen, on the other hand, has played in 29 NHL games with a.902 SV% and 2.81 GAA. While he's struggled this season too, having a.872 SV% and a 3.23 GAA through 11 games played, he represents potential for the future.

Colorado's Perspective

When looking at this trade from Colorado's point of view, there are two distinct ways to view it. On the surface, it seems like a reasonable trade. Wedgewood is a veteran goaltender who is content with his role as a backup. But when you dig deeper, it becomes clear that Colorado's goaltenders have been struggling mightily this season. They currently have the worst team save percentage in the league. This trade doesn't seem to address the core problem. Wedgewood is a fine backup, but that's all he is. The Avalanche need to figure out their starting goaltender issues if they want to be serious contenders this season. Wedgewood alone isn't going to move the needle significantly.

Justus Annunen may offer some hope for the future, but in the present, Colorado's goaltending woes persist. They need to make more substantial moves to strengthen their goalie position and give themselves a chance to compete at a higher level.