Binnington Next to Go Following Hellebuyck Trade? Where’s the Fit?

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With one of the biggest names coming off the NHL trade market in Connor Hellebuyck, attention from teams looking for goaltending help could turn to the St. Louis Blues. NHL insider Chris Johnston pointed more specifically at Jordan Binnington, suggesting he might be the next big name to come off the board.

Johnston writes in his recent trade board column:

“With Hellebuyck off the market, Binnington is the most intriguing name for teams looking to add an experienced goaltender. There are some warning signs with his play over the past year or two, but his long-term track record remains a source of comfort. Binnington has often delivered his best performances in circumstances where the lights are brightest.”

Part of the reason the Blues might be open to moving on, or that Binnington might be open to being traded is his usage. He’s losing his spot to the team’s potential new No. 1. “Just getting playing time has become a challenge for him with the Blues, where Joel Hofer has taken control of the No. 1 job.”

Binnington is also a pending UFA, something that always leads to trade speculation.

Where Would Binnington Go? Rangers Might Make Sense

The New York Rangers have talked about Binnington, John Gibson, and Anthony Stolarz as potential goalie acquisitions. Binnington makes a lot of sense given the Rangers current situation.

They were hit hard by an injury to Igor Shesterkin. They signed James Reimer off of a PTO, but Reimer allowed several goals in his debut and suffered an injury already. Head coach Mike Sullivan said holding Reimer out for Tuesday’s practice was more “precautionary” after he came in this morning feeling a little something. Doesn’t sound like anything too serious. Still, Reimer is anything but reliable. Reimer is day-to-day with an upper-body injury.

Binnington is a low-commitment option for the Rangers. He’s got a proven track record and he could help get the Rangers to the playoffs. If he doesn’t, the Rangers can walk away this summer and Shesterkin can return.

Binnington will play tonight for the Blues as they take on the Montreal Canadiens. Much of what the Blues will choose to do depends on their record. 5-5-1 to start the season, they aren’t wowing anyone, but it’s far too early to suggest they’re out of it. Teams have reportedly kicked tires on Binnington over the last couple of seasons, but with the Blues trying to be competitive, only if they get a big offer or feel they’re not contenders might this move go down.

Next: Maple Leafs Open to Another Blockbuster Trade, But Who Could Be Moved?