The Bolts finally plugged up the back up goalie position with the acquisition of free agent Antero Niittymaki, formerly of the Philadelphia Flyers. He is a capable back up, as he had been developing well in the Flyers’ farm system prior to a string of injuries.
The contract is a 1 year, 600k contract, so if he turns out to be riddled with more injuries and/or have an unexplicable case of sucky-ness, we’re only locked in for a year. (Lesson learned from the Marc Denis debacle). He also provides a nice insurance policy is Smitty’s post concussion syndrome continues to hamper his playing ability.
I believe he can start if the situation arises, and that he will be extra motivated this year. I mean, he was almost shipped off to play in Russia for a year, so I think he will make the best of his opportunity this year. If anything, he’ll push Smitty during training camp. At 600K, it’s a bargain for a 29 year old.
In other news, Viktor Hedman signed a standard rookie deal, and unveiled his jersey number of choice as 77. Hopefully it well become feared on that blue line. Here’s to hoping!
Filed under: sports | Tagged: Antero Niittymaki, Hockey, Tampa Bay Lightning, Viktor Hedman
