Senators have major interest in Markstrom trade with Flames: report

Calgary Flames goaltender Jacob Markstrom looks like he’ll be a hot commodity this summer.

Less than a week ago, it was reported that the New Jersey Devils have re-engaged in talks with the Flames regarding Markstrom. While they are still considered the frontrunner to land him by many, a new team has entered the sweepstakes.

Bruce Garrioch of Postmedia reported on Sunday that the Senators have been “one of the league’s most aggressive teams” in pursuing Markstrom. The 34-year-old has two seasons remaining on his contract, which carries a cap hit of $6 million.

Markstrom’s relationship with the Flames soured after he failed to get moved at the trade deadline. Based on some comments Kevin Woodley made on Sportsnet 960’s Flames Talk, it appears that his time with the organization is nearing its end, regardless of which team he’s dealt to.

“In the past week or so, a couple people who are close to him and his camp and would know, I think the ship has sailed on that,” Woodley said. “As a matter of fact, I think the Flames know that there is no intention of coming back. Obviously, they control his future, but I believe that that request has been made, that he wants to play somewhere else, preferably for a team that has a chance to compete.”

The Senators targeting a number-one goaltender doesn’t come as a big surprise, as Joonas Korpisalo really struggled for them in that role this past season. That said, he has three more seasons remaining on his deal, with a $4 million cap hit, meaning that they’ll likely need to figure out a way to move him to bring in Markstrom.

Though Markstrom was irritated by not being moved at the deadline, the decision to hold onto him may prove to be a good thing. Having numerous teams interested in a trade will only help increase the bidding war, and should ensure that the Flames net a healthy return.

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