As the Colorado Avalanche head into training camp in a few days, the club’s lack of experienced goaltending depth seemed mildly concerning.
As it stands, the Avs are set with Alexandar Georgiev as the starter. While he had somewhat of an underwhelming year last season, there’s no indication he shouldn’t have a solid campaign in 2024-25.
But that’s where things get kind of thin. Beyond highly touted prospect Justus Annunen, the Avs don’t really have a solid goaltender. PuckPedia shows two other goalies in the system: Kevin Mandolese and Trent Milner. Both netminders look like AHL players, making their jump to the big club rather unlikely.
So, this situation begs the question: Do the Colorado Avalanche need to add more goaltending depth?
On the whole, I think so. Adding a veteran goalie as insurance could prove worthwhile. The New York Islanders' recent signing of Keith Kinkaid to a PTO is an example of a low-risk proposition. The Avs could explore a similar move.
The best part of bringing someone in on a PTO is that there is very little risk to the move. If things don’t work out, the club can part ways with the goalie without losing anything. But if things go well, the club gains an experienced goaltender as a much-needed insurance policy.
Currently, there are no alarm bells to worry about, But as the Avs head into camp, it’s worth taking a deeper look at the goalie depth situation. Hockey is unpredictable and there’s no telling when emergencies could arise.
Justus Annunen poised to become the Colorado Avalanche's starting goaltender
Annunen ranks among the Avalanche’s top prospects. The 24-year-old Finnish goaltender looks ready to make a significant impact on the NHL. If that’s the case, Annunen may not be a backup for too long this upcoming season.
If Colorado truly envisions Annunen as the future starting goaltender, the club will need to get him into serious game action this upcoming season.
In a small sample size last season, Annunen impressed. In 14 games, He registered a 2.25 GAA and a .928 SV%. Those numbers seem encouraging enough to give Annunen a legitimate shot at competing for the starting role this upcoming season.
It’s hard to envision Annunen winning the starting job out of camp. Unless Georgiev struggles significantly, Annunen may have to wait another season before taking over for good.
It’s worth pointing out that Georgiev is set to become a free agent this summer. So, if Annunen has a great year, the Avs could be motivated to move on from Georgiev.
At this point, these thoughts are mere speculations. We need to see what both netminders have to show in camp. Then again, the Avs could be biding their time for a big-name goaltender, like Igor Shesterkin, to hit the free-agent market.
Don’t forget that anything is possible in the NHL.