Rumor: James Reimer could be moved ahead of the trade deadline.

We have a very interesting rumor to report on, primarily because it would be a rare trade between two Stanley Cup contenders ahead of the National Hockey League's trade deadline.

According to a report from Colorado Avalanche insider Adrian Dater, the Avalanche are currently "kicking tires" on Carolina Hurricanes goaltender James Reimer. Dater also expressed some doubts about whether or not such a trade will materialize ahead of the deadline, but nonetheless his sources are reporting that the two sides have had talks about this potential move.

The 33 year old native of Morweena, Manitoba has played a significant role for the Hurricanes this season with 18 appearances in goal, recording a 2.70 goals against average and a .907 save percentage over that stretch. For this reason more than any other this becomes a very curious potential trade in my eyes, as Reimer is clearly a part of their playoff plans moving forward. I can't imagine the Hurricanes even considering a trade of this nature, especially not when it involves another playoff contender, unless they get a very significant return in the process, one that they would feel would help them improve their chances of winning a Stanley Cup.

On the other side of the equation I can certainly understand why the Avalanche would have interest in making such a move, given their goaltending woes  this season. There's no doubt that 29 year old Philipp Grubauer will be their starting netminder heading down the stretch, his 28 appearances with a 1.73 goals against average and a .930 save percentage have certainly earned him that spot, but their backup situation is something of a concern.

The Avalanche recently acquired former Buffalo Sabres goaltender Jonas Johansson but he looked shaky in his one start since the trade. On top of that he was described in brutal fashion by Buffalo Sabres insider John Vogl following the trade.

"I can say without hesitation that the Avs are getting the worst goalie I've seen during my 19 seasons covering the Sabres," said Vogl at the time of the trade.

I can certainly see why the Avalanche would feel they need something better in case Grubauer falters or is injured down the stretch, and it sounds like James Reimer may be the answer to that problem. The only question now is what will it cost them to pry him from the Hurricanes?