3 Potential Trade Destinations for Hurricanes' Frederik Andersen
Carolina Hurricanes goaltender Frederik Andersen is a trade candidate to keep an eye on this season. The Hurricanes have goaltending depth for the first time in a long time, and with Andersen undergoing the first 'losing' season of his career to this point, with a 5-7-2 record, the Hurricanes could be looking to flip the Danish netminder after the holiday roster freeze.
Andersen, 36, is in the final season of his contract, earning $2.7 million AAV. The team is currently carrying three goaltenders, thanks to the stellar play of Brandon Bussi, but that's not going to be the case the rest of the year.
Hurricanes GM Eric Tulsky is expected to explore a trade list with Andersen, as the veteran goaltender holds a full no-movement clause, and there's actually more to it, as there's a clause in his trade protection that states - 'reduces to 5 team no trade list Feb 23 if he doesn’t play in at least 1/3 of regular season by Feb 15', which at this point could certainly be the case.
Andersen's health has been questioned as he hasn't consistently been available the last few years, but when he's on, he's one of the best goaltenders in the league. He owns a career 313-142-55 record, with a career 2.57 GAA and .914 Sv.%.
As far as trade destinations go, don't be surprised to see the Edmonton Oilers snooping around to see if they can buy low, and give Tristan Jarry a running mate. The Oilers aren't comfortable with Cal Pickard as their backup and continue to work the phones on the goalie trade market.
There's also the Anaheim Ducks who are in the market for some goaltending depth, and have been linked to a couple of trades of late. Andersen is very familiar with Anaheim, as he was drafted in the third round in 2012, and spent parts of three seasons with the organization.
Lastly, keep an eye on the LA Kings, who maybe looking to upgrade on backup goaltender Anton Forsberg. GM Ken Holland is open to just about anything this season, as they look to send Anze Kopitar out with a bang.
The Ducks to this point appear to be the favorites if a trade materializes. Will the 'Canes move Andersen? It certainly feels that way to this point of the season.
Photo credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images
