3 Potential Trade Destinations for Calgary Flames' Dan Vladar

The Calgary Flames are expected to trade goaltender Dan Vladar. The 27-year-old netminder is a pending unrestricted free agent, earning $2.2 million AAV against the cap, and while he's not a number-one option for a contending team, look for GM's around the league to consider him as a depth insurance option heading into a playoff push.

Flames GM Craig Conroy has Dustin Wolf as his #1 of the future, and with Devin Cooley showing off all-star level skills in the AHL, Vladar being moved for a prospect or some NHL depth will certainly be on Conroy's wish list. Here's where Vladar could end up before March 7:

Carolina Hurricanes

The 'Canes have Frederik Andersen who is slated to be their 1-A, but with his injury history, they are in the market for another goaltender. Anaheim Ducks John Gibson recently mentioned he'd prefer to be traded to either Carolina or Edmonton, but it's much more likely GM Eric Tulsky adds a cheaper option, than splurge on Gibson and his $6.4 million AAV for two more seasons.

Tampa Bay Lightning

The Lightning's back up is Jonas Johansson, who is a pending UFA and has posted a record of 6-5-1 on the year, with a 3.24 GAA and .892 SV.%. The Lightning never leave any stone unturned and always look to upgrade their flaws before the trade deadline. Look for GM Julien BriseBois to add a defenceman and another goaltender, with Vladar one of the best options available on the trade market.

Columbus Blue Jackets

The Blue Jackets are one of the best stories in the league so far this season, entering the 4 Nations Face-Off break just one point behind the 2nd wild-card spot, and two points before the 1st. They're doing so without strong goaltending, and could look to make a deal with the Flames to add some depth before the deadline. 23-year-old Jet Greaves leads the Jackets with a .906 Sv.%, something has to give in Columbus' crease.

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