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NHL Free Agency: 5 potential landing spots for Braden Holtby

By Brad Berreman

TORONTO, ONTARIO – AUGUST 12: Braden Holtby #70 of the Washington Capitals makes the first period save against the New York Islanders in Game One of the Eastern Conference First Round during the 2020 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena on August 12, 2020 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ONTARIO – AUGUST 12: Braden Holtby #70 of the Washington Capitals makes the first period save against the New York Islanders in Game One of the Eastern Conference First Round during the 2020 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena on August 12, 2020 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /
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Credit: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images
Credit: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images /

4. Carolina Hurricanes

Carolina seems fairly set in goal for next year, with Petr Mrazek and James Reimer under contract. They both outperformed Holtby this season too, with save percentages above .900 and GAA’s below 2.70 during the regular season and a nice shared postseason run (.931 combined save percentage, with a 2.18 goals-against average). That said, neither has Holtby’s overall experience and postseason record. If the Hurricanes are to take the next step, with last year’s surprising run to Eastern Conference Finals in mind, an upgrade (theoretical or otherwise) between the pipes might be on the radar.

The Hurricanes have a very good group of defensemen, which of course helps any goaltender. Carolina allowed the second-fewest shots on goal per game during the regular season (29.3), while Washington ceded the ninth-fewest (30.2 per game).

Trading the expiring contract of Mrazek of Reimer would be a prerequisite to signing Holtby (or any other goalie), if only for the roster opening beyond gaining a little cap space. Winger Nino Niederreiter ($5.25 million cap hit for the next three years) could be a trade chip too if the Hurricanes can find a team that believes in any lingering residue of potential.

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