Dan Vladar Wants to Stay with Flames Despite Trade Rumors

Calgary Flames goaltender Dan Vladar has made it clear that he wants to remain with the team, expressing his desire to re-sign before the trade deadline. Vladar, a pending unrestricted free agent, understands the business and knows his name is out there. Still, he’s happy splitting starts with rookie Dustin Wolf and is hoping the Flames choose not to move him at the deadline.

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As per an article by Eric Francis of Sportsnet, Vladar said, “I love this city, and this is the team that gave me the opportunity to play in the NHL, and I just don’t want to leave.” Unfortunately, GM Craig Conroy isn’t sure what the future holds.

Conroy noted:

“It is tough, because he’s done a great job for us. Both goalies have, so there’s no issues. It’s going to come down to, once you do the contract negotiations, everybody has got an idea of where they are at and what the price is.  You have to do something that works for both sides.”

Vladar Has Earned a Contract, Even If It’s Not With the Flames

Despite his 6-7-5 record, 3.20 GAA, and .890 save percentage, Vladar has faced some of the toughest opponents in the league, often starting the second half of back-to-backs. His performance is not the reason the Flames are a maybe for the playoffs. He has been crucial to keeping the Flames competitive, and his veteran presence has helped Wolf make the transition into the NHL.

Vladar’s desire to stay in Calgary is obvious. He noted, “For me, I would be more than proud to stay here as long as I can.” But, he acknowledged, “At the same time, I’m not the one making the decisions.”

There will be interest around the league for Vladar, and the Flames having top AHL goalie Devin Cooley set to join the roster next season makes it seem unlikely that Vladar will stay with the Flames long-term. His future with the team will depend on negotiations, but given his contributions to the team’s success, there’s a strong chance that the Flames will only unload him at the deadline if an offer comes that is too good to refuse.

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