NHL Rumors: Teams Interested In James Reimer After Spengler Cup

Thursday, January 08, 2026 , , , ,

Buffalo Sabres goaltender James Reimer watches the play during 2025 game.

James Reimer might have played his way back onto NHL radars. 

After two strong showings at the Spengler Cup, Elliotte Friedman said on the 32 Thoughts podcast that teams want to talk with Reimer, get a feel for where his head is at, and see if there’s a fit that makes sense.

Reimer Coming Back to the NHL?

Reimer’s season path has been messy, but it’s also why he’s intriguing in January. He began the year on a professional tryout with the Toronto Maple Leafs, didn’t make the roster, and ended up heading overseas to play, where the Spengler Cup provided a very public audition. 

He’s still an unrestricted free agent and, per Friedman, he’d prefer a contender if the right opportunity pops up. Last season, split between the Anaheim Ducks and Buffalo Sabres, Reimer posted an .896 save percentage, which isn’t going to scare anyone into promising him starts, but teams love the idea of a veteran who can stabilize a schedule in short bursts when injuries hit.

Where Does Reimer Land?

The Ottawa Senators have been floated as a logical landing spot with Linus Ullmark out, and Friedman specifically mentioned teams wanting conversations rather than rushing into anything. Familiar franchises are part of the chatter too, with the Sabres and Carolina Hurricanes both being named as possible matches for a goalie who’s been around the league and won’t be shocked by a backup or depth role. 

Over his 15-year NHL career, the 37-year-old holds a solid .910 save percentage, 2.89 GAA, recorded 31 shutouts, and holds a 225-187-65 record across 525 appearances.

Photo Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

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