Rumor: Elliott headed to another Canadian team?

Scott Darling traded and signed. Ben Bishop traded and signed. Next up on the NHL’s free-agent goaltending carousel? Brian Elliott. NBC Sports’ Mike Halford reports that the Calgary Flames netminder whose contract expires July 1st, could be an option for another western Canadian team: the Winnipeg Jets.

The future in Winnipeg is youngster Connor Hellebuyck, but might Elliott provide a better mentorship than Ondrej Pavelec has? While Elliott was inconsistent during his time in Calgary, he is just one year removed from a strong post-season with the St Louis Blues and likely could be signed to a relatively palatable contract. 

In 49 games with the Flames this season, the 32 year-old Elliott put up a 2.55 GAA and .910 Sv%. Unfortunately, those numbers ballooned in 4 playoff games to 3.88 GAA and .880 Sv%. Not good. Of course, there’s still the possibility of Elliot re-signing in Calgary. But, if he elects to test the market, don’t be surprised if heads just two provinces east for next season.