Could A Bruins & Utah Goalie Swap Work?

Joonas Korpisalo signed a deal with the Ottawa Senators before last season to be their starter. That didn't work out as planned and he was part of the deal to acquire Linus Ullmark from the Boston Bruins. This gave Jeremy Swayman a clear path to being the starter along with the big contract he signed. And that quickly, Korpisalo went from having a great season split between the Columbus Blue Jackets and LA Kings, to signing a five-year deal, to backing up on a bottom-5 team.

There were times when Korpisalo had the opportunity to steal more starts from Swayman this season, but he floundered those, didn't play a whole lot this season, starting 24 games and playing 27 and wasn't happy about it. He finished with an 11-10-3 record, a 2.90 GAA, .893 SV%, and three shutouts. For the team that was in front of him and compared to Swayman, I see Korpisalo's point. He deserved at least 30 starts, even though it probably wouldn't have mattered too much.

In Utah, we saw Karel Vejmelka once again solidify himself as the starter with Connor Ingram struggling and being injured. I think it is time for a change in Utah with Ingram as well and both him and Korpisalo have term left on their deals. Korpisalo has the worse contract, but is less of an injury risk and can finally give Vejmelka the relief he needs. He started way too many games down the stretch because there wasn't any other viable option. That could catch up to him real quick.

It wouldn't be the perfect trade, but it may be the easiest way for the Bruins to get rid of someone who isn't happy with his playing time while bringing in someone who has played well in the past. Boston also has Brandon Bussi and Michael DiPietro if they decide to bring either of them back as a third string option. Utah has more cap space and a need for a goalie who will actually be available. It could be a win-win and an underrated move for both sides.

Photo credit: © Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images