NHL Free Agency Speculation: Backup Goaltenders for the Pittsburgh Penguins

May 18th, 2012 by Alison Myers Leave a reply »
One of the Pittsburgh Penguins' biggest needs in this year's free-agency period is a backup goaltender.

Brent Johnson, the team's backup for the last three seasons, is likely to depart the organization as an unrestricted free agent. He had a disappointing year in 2011-12, going 6-7-2 with a .883 save percentage and 3.11 GAA. However, this was likely due to ongoing injury problems and an illness.

While it seems easy enough to promote prospect Brad Thiessen, it doesn't seem as though he is entirely ready for the role. Thiessen shined against weaker opponents such as the Columbus Blue Jackets and Winnipeg Jets, but got lit up against stronger competition in the Ottawa Senators.

So, assuming Ray Shero wants to sign a more experienced insurance policy for Marc-Andre Fleury, who should he pursue?

Here are six goaltenders who may be able to give Fleury some rest, which could ensure a more refreshed starter for the next postseason.

Note: All goaltenders in this slideshow are unrestricted free agents come July 1.

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