I really think that Lundquist could be the answer here. I think it would be a long shot for him to leave NY, however, I could see him wanting to chase a cup for the next two years for this team. I don't think the cost would be astronomical because the Rangers would prefer to continue with the current tandem without Hank. I do also think that he would be an upgrade to Gru, would help with the playoff run this year and a tandem of Grubauer and Lundquist next year would be solid and give the Avs time to season Annunen.
Yeah I've thought Lundqvist could be a good option for a couple months now, since we lost Grubauer and Franc earlier in the year.
If he's willing to leave NY, then he'd be cheap to acquire since he's got a full NMC, and it would be a Bourque situation where they were trying to send him somewhere so he can win a Cup. He's also only got one year left, so he shouldn't impact the Avs cap.
They'd basically go with a 3 headed monster this year, and ride whoever gets hot. Then either do the same next year, or walk from Francouz at the end of the year, and bring in another good #2/3.
The risk is they'd potentially be downgrading the tandem next year if Francouz walks, but they'll have decent depth this year in case of further injuries, and will have some time to resolve the backup situation next year if it's a problem.
Since the off season, the biggest concern has been the goaltending, and what kind of #3 Sakic brought in to compensate for it. He didn't bring in very good #3's before the season, and now since injuries have shown to be an issue multiple times to both, Joe has to address it at the deadline when the team has shown they can win the Cup this year.
