The most coveted goaltender in the free agent market has finally found a home, as veteran netminder Nikolai Khabibulin has signed with the Chicago Blackhawks.
It is a four-year deal worth $27 million US.
Khabibulin, 32, helped lead the Tampa Bay Lightning to their first Stanley Cup title in 2004, posting five postseason shutouts and a 1.71 goals-against average.
The native of Russia posted a 28-19-7 regualr season record in 2003-2004 with three shutouts and a 2.33 goals-against average.
Since being acquired from the Phoenix Coyotes on March 5, 2001, Khabibulin has amassed a 83-74-28 record while leading the team to consecutive Southeast Division titles. He holds franchise records in wins, shutouts (14) and consecutive wins (eight).
I hope Khabibulin likes facing a lot shots, because he will certainly see that in Chicago.
Maybe JFJ can get his head out of his ass long enough to sign to make a trade for Thibault. He would be a great back up to have in case Eddie's back flares up, and Thibault would be a great goalie to have for the next few years while Tuukka Rask develops.
If the Hawks can add another scorer, they could be a much improved team. I love the addition of Aucoin and they picked up Cullimore last year before the lockout. This should a drastically improved defensive club with a former defenseman behind their bench. The Central Division is much improved with the moves the Blackhawks and Blue Jackets have made and the Predators are a club on the rise. You could see 4 teams out of this division in the playoffs.
Hapday wrote:
Maybe JFJ can get his head out of his ass long enough to sign to make a trade for Thibault. He would be a great back up to have in case Eddie's back flares up, and Thibault would be a great goalie to have for the next few years while Tuukka Rask develops.
Cry baby Thibault couldn't handle the media pressure in Montreal so I'd be surprised if he landed in TO.
Chicago was the perfect place for him then. Nobody knows about the Blackhawks there. I imagine a little closer scrutiny in Toronto.
If nothing else, this new system has gotten otherwise dead franchises to sign or make runs at high priced talent. Before, would Edmonton even think about going after Pronger? Blackhawks for Khabibulin? Ducks for Niedermayer? Thrashers for Holik? I liked my team (Stars) having semi-elite status with a deep pocketed owner but don't mind everyone getting into the mix now.
