Thursday, June 23, 2016

Fringe Deal (Jun 23)

The Florida Panthers continue to be one of the busiest teams leading up to the entry draft, as they used one of their long-time prospects in a deal that brings in a potential back-up goalie, sending forward Rocco Grimaldi to the Colorado Avalanche for Reto Berra on Thursday.

Berra appeared in 14 games with the Avalanche last season, winning five, and now has the lead for the back-up role behind Roberto Luongo, as Al Montoya appears to be heading to free agency next week.  Berra was the 62nd ranked goalie last season and could see adequate time in Florida, playing behind a retooled defense.  With Calvin Pickard ripe for an NHL job, Berra was certainly expendable for a deal.

Grimaldi was a 2nd round pick in 2011, but has only appeared in 27 games for the Panthers in total, unable to break into the lineup on a full-time basis.  With the Avalanche's forward depth somewhat in question, there is certainly some potential for earning a spot in that lineup, assuming he can bring it all together in training camp.

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