New Jersey Devils: 5 Backup Goalie Options In Free Agency

2. Marc-Andre Fleury

This one seems unlikely, but let’s play around with the possibility. Marc-Andre Fleury decided to join the Chicago Blackhawks last season despite knowing that team wasn’t a Stanley Cup contender. There was likely a promise in there that if the Blackhawks were out of it, they’d trade him. They did just that, and Fleury ended up playing for the Minnesota Wild. They didn’t make it out of the first round despite the best efforts of Kirill Kaprizov.

Now, Fleury is a free agent for the first time in his career. For the first time, he can choose whatever team he wants in the entire league. There are some interesting options out there, but the Devils have to be intriguing, right?

For one, the Devils could pay Fleury the likes of a Brinks truck while asking him to play 1B or backup minutes. He can get paid well while also putting less of a strain on his body. Would Fleury demand starter minutes? If the money is right, we don’t think so.

He could come in and guide Mackenzie Blackwood or another goalie to positive results. He gets to learn from Martin Brodeur about how to go from an all-time great to a front office dynamo. Heck, the Devils could offer Fleury a spot in the front office after his career ends. That’s what happened with the Blues and Brodeur. This would be smart for the Devils. However, it has to make sense for Fleury to move the needle.