Minutes ago the Anaheim Ducks extended goalie Jonas Hiller to the tune of four years and 18 million dollars, a cap hit of 4.5 million.
This move means two things.
One, they think highly enough of Hiller to make him their starter for four years. Two, Jean-Sebastien Giguere should pack his bags.
Hiller now plays a firm role in not only the Ducks playoff hopes but their bright future, joining a core of Bobby Ryan, Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf. “This is a very exciting day for me…” Hiller told reporters. “I couldn’t be happier to stay here.”
Fantasy owners feel free to roll Hiller out there every night now as he leads a streaking Ducks team down the stretch. A happy and rested goaltender on a hot team should be an asset to any team.
On the other hand, Giguere owners should jump ship if they had not already.
Starting next season the Ducks will tie up 10.5 million in their goalie duo, which probably is not the best asset management. Look for Giguere to be dealt as soon as the March 3rd trade deadline, a team like the Stars or Maple Leafs with big question marks for next season may express interest despite the 6 million cap hit.
If Giguere does move he would have to waive his no-trade clause and likely move to a worse team than his current employer. It will take some sort of miracle for Giguere to reclaim his Stanley Cup form at this point as he must prove to the NHL and fantasy community he still is a number one goaltender.
