Antti Raanta, Goaltender/Carolina Hurricanes
Antti Raanta hasn’t enjoyed the same success this season that he’s experienced in the past, but it’s mainly been a one year outlier for the 34-year-old, who has a career save percentage of 0.915 and GAA of 2.48. So let’s not judge Raanta’s overall performance on one bad season, as he’s bounced back from lean years in the past.
In 2020-21, Raanta was in his final season with the Arizona Coyotes, and he struggled through what was statistically an awful year, posting a 0.905 save percentage, but a 3.36 GAA to go with it. But when you look at his xGA of 28.6 at even strength, he only allowed 1.4 goals over that number, so it wasn’t half-bad.
That hasn’t been the case this season, with 48 goals allowed at even strength despite an xGA of 40.1, but his actual goals allowed vs. xGA have been stellar in 2021-22 and 2022-23. So, once again, it’s premature to judge Raanta’s career-worst season with too much scrutiny.
Plus, he would be a backup to Samuel Ersson next season, and his presence would also allow Ivan Fedotov - a pending unrestricted free agent who should be re-signed - time in the AHL should Briere feel the 27-year-old would benefit from a stint. Or, sign Raanta with the intent of playing him in the AHL as insurance - Raanta is currently there at the moment.