Should the Flames Make Huge July 1 Pitch for an Elite Goaltender?

If the Calgary Flames choose not to go for a full rebuild or aim to accelerate the process, they could target a few key additions this summer. The most impactful would be elite goaltender Igor Shesterkin, who, given the current situation in New York, could potentially reach unrestricted free agency.

The belief is that Shesterkin will get a deal done with the Rangers. They've already offered to make him the highest-paid goalie in the NHL. To this point, he's declined. The issue in New York seems to be that Shesterkin wants an obscene amount and he's going to cut off talks when the regular season starts.

The question becomes how much is Shesterkin pushing for and how high are the Rangers willing to go before they say enough is enough.

Should, improbably, Shesterkin decide to test the market, the Calgary Flames have the money and the wherewithal to make a run at him. The Flames have nearly $20 million in cap space this season and over $35 million for next season.

Shesterkin wants "reset the market" on goalies, which potentially means being open to the highest bidder, even if that includes a non-traditionally popular destination like Calgary.

Looking at Calgary’s current goaltending situation: Dan Vladar’s contract is set to expire, Dustin Wolf lacks experience as a starter, and Devin Cooley remains untested.

All in all, the Flames can offer Shesterkin $13 million per season without really blinking.

Why Would Calgary Do This?

First, nothing would speed up a rebuild more than getting arguably the best goalie in the league. He might not be available, but if makes it to market, players like him don't become available very often.

Secondly, if the Flames want to persuade their stars to stay and be patient, signing Shesterkin would signal the organization’s commitment to building a contender. Who leaves after watching their team land Shesterkin?

Thirdly, they can afford to try. With all sorts of cap space and a potential need for an elite goaltender, why not swing big? It costs nothing for the team to show its interest in the player if he makes it to market. None of their current goalies should be appalled based on where they are in their careers and the message a move like this would send speaks volumes.