The New York Rangers quickly filled the void left behind in trading Cam Talbot on Saturday, as they traded for Antti Raanta, sending Ryan Haggerty to the Chicago Blackhawks.
Really, the deal makes sense for both sides.
Again, the Rangers determined that Talbot would be too expensive to re-sign, so they grab Raanta and his $750K cap hit for 2015-16. The 26-year-old was overshadowed by Scott Darling at times this past season, although it’s tough to beat Raanta up for what he accomplished: a sparkling .936 save percentage with a 7-4-1 record. One could argue that his resume may end up looking a lot like Talbot’s after the 2015-16 season ends. (Maybe.)
Both the Rangers and Blackhawks know that every cent counts, and Chicago was already moving toward Darling as Corey Crawford’s backup. It’s not spectacular savings since Darling’s first season is two-way, but it makes sense for the ‘Hawks to grab a prospect for their troubles.
The general reaction is positive, especially for the Rangers.
The difference between Talbot and Raanta is much smaller than the difference between the 3 picks NYR got and Ryan Haggerty. Great moves.
— Adam Herman (@AdamZHerman) June 27, 2015
