The Ottawa Senators have maybe one of the best problems any club can have—too many goalies.
The team didn’t hesitate to lock up Andrew Hammond, who was a vital part of the team’s incredible second-half run en route to a postseason appearance, to a three-year contract last week. In doing so, however, the team now has a crowded depth chart and needs to move either Craig Anderson or Robin Lehner.
According to Ottawa Sun reporter Bruce Garrioch, “The Senators would like to clear up the crowded crease before the draft if it’s at all possible. After signing Hammond to the extension, the talk is [general manager Bryan] Murray has been fielding calls on Craig Anderson and Robin Lehner with significant interest in both.”
Garrioch stated that the Senators are seeking a top six forward in return for Anderson or Lehner, and that the San Jose Sharks, Edmonton Oilers and Buffalo Sabres are among the teams interested in acquiring one of the two netminders.
“Five or six teams have called, and there has been some discussion and there will continue to be. We’ll see what comes of it,” Senators general manager Bryan Murray told the Ottawa Sun.
Lehner might be the easier of the two to move, due to his age (23) and cheaper cap hit ($2.25 million through 2016-17). Anderson, meanwhile, is signed through the 2017-18 season at a cap hit of $4.2 million. And at 34-years-old, his age could be a factor.
It’s also worth noting that when Ottawa’s postseason was on the line in Game 7 against Montreal, the team opted to go with Anderson in net over Hammond. It’s not far fetched to think the team keeps Anderson to not only help push Hammond, but also serve as a veteran mentor and experienced backup.
