3 Goaltenders Most Likely To Be Traded Next Season
The NHL's trade market has slowed down considerably these past few days, but that doesn't mean conversations aren't still ongoing. There's been several huge trades already this offseason, and there's still a few trade demands from some big players that haven't been solved.
Heading into next season, let's showcase a few goaltenders you should have on your trade radar, as these three goalies are the three most likely to be traded during the 2026-27 NHL season:
Sam Montembeault, Montreal Canadiens
The Canadiens are one of the more exciting teams to follow heading into next season, as the Habs are expected to take giant step forward in their pursuit of the Stanley Cup. After last season's coming out parties for Jacob Fowler and Jakub Dobes, 29-year-old Sam Montembeault has quickly become the odd man out. He's a pending unrestricted free agent, earning $3.1 million AAV, and without any trade protection, Montembeault can be moved at will. Expect to see GM Kent Hughes try to move Montembeault once training camps open in September.
Jake Allen, New Jersey Devils
Allen admitted recently he's not thrilled the Devils have three NHL goaltenders for next season, even after moving Jacob Markstrom to the Florida Panthers. New Jersey has Allen, Nico Daws and newly signed David Rittich expected in training camp next season. Daws is obviously the goalie of the future, and it was a little confusing why the Devils went out and got Rittich on a one-year, $1 million deal. Allen owns a no-trade clause, and has four years left on his deal, so it will be interesting to see how this all shapes out for the Devils' crease.
Connor Hellebuyck, Winnipeg Jets
Hellebuyck hasn't officially asked for a trade, but he made it clear as day he's open to it if the team doesn't turn the corner. The Buffalo Sabres and Carolina Hurricanes took serious runs at Hellebuyck this summer, but no deal was reached. If the Jets get off to a tough start next season, expect to see the market for Hellebuyck pick up in a major way.