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Which teams are having sneaky good off-seasons? |
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Follow me on Twitter @ToddCordell
In this edition of the hotstove, we share our thoughts on teams that are having strong off-seasons and not necessarily getting a lot of recognition for it.
Todd Cordell
I really like what Colorado has done.
Now more than ever it's apparent how important it is to have two quality goaltenders. This summer the Avalanche added arguably the best one available in Philipp Grubauer.
Over the last two seasons, 45 goaltenders have logged at 2,400 minutes at 5v5. Grubauer ranks 1st among them with a .939 save percentage. That's well above his expected save percentage of .919. The 2% difference is 2nd largest in that span – behind only Sergei Bobrovsky. Grubauer sure seems like the real deal and all it cost the Avs was a 2nd rounder and a bit of cap space they weren't going to use anyway.
While Ian Cole didn't come cheap, I think he is a really nice addition as well. The Avs needed to solidify their defense and Cole should help them do that. He's a legitimately good defensive defenseman and will nicely compliment Erik Johnson and/or Tyson Barrie in the top-4.
Matt Calvert adds some more depth on the wing and should give them a little more pop at the bottom of their lineup.
On top of what the positive changes to their NHL roster, they also drafted Martin Kaut at 16th overall. His talent level warranted a higher selection and I don't think it'll take too long for him to make people realize that.
Sean Maloughney
The Coyotes have made a series of good moves this offseason. Acquiring Galchenyuk for Domi was a clear win for the organization and goes far on bolstering the Yotes depth at centre. The Raanta extension, as well as the Oliver Ekman Larsson extension, were two signings that needed to happen but Chayka inked both without breaking the bank.
On top of these bigger moves the team added Grabner who will help with the PK, Hinostroza who though undersized could provide scoring depth and Oesterle and old Oilers prospect who can step in as a 7th. The Coyotes finished last season strong and their organization made some smart bets this offseason without breaking the bank.
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