Puck 'N Hockey

As expected, the free agent laden San Jose Sharks are making some tough decisions as the July 1st, NHL free agency deadline approaches.  They announced today, that the Sharks starting goaltender since 2000, Evgeni Nabokov, would not be signed to a new deal.  Invariably, the question is asked, where will Nabokov end up?  Could he be a good fit in Washington, who will not be signing Jose Theodore?

Evgeni Nabokov (REUTERS/Jessica Rinaldi)

Let’s analyze Evgeni Nabokov as an individual.  The guy held a starting goaltender spot on an NHL roster for 10 years.  That is nothing to take lightly.  He clearly understands what it it takes to prepare and maintain his body for the long NHL season and perform well.  He can win some games.  However, he has a bad reputation for choking in the playoffs and big games.  Last season was no different as Nabby was the target of much criticism for his performance in the Olympics and in the Sharks’ failure to reach the Stanley Cup Finals.  Most critics feel that Nabokov’s age is starting to catch up with his once excellent glove hand and cat-like quickness between the pipes.  This is probably why San Jose management felt they could part ways with their starting netminder who made $6 million last season.

It seems the trend amongst NHL clubs the past couple seasons is to have a few good goaltenders that can be used as needed.  Call it goaltending-by-committee to borrow a fantasy football term.  The idea being that you can win with good goaltending and solid defense rather than one great, starting goaltender anchoring your team.  In the salary cap age, this is more economical as well.  GMs seem to be leaning towards signing multiple players at any position for the money they used to throw at say a single, 30-40 goal scorer (I’m looking at you Alexander Semin).

So, in Evgeni Nabokov, we have a proven NHL starter, that probably has to give up at least half of what he made last year, to begin the end of his NHL career.  Would he be willing to sign with the Caps for $2.75 to $3 million with the intent of mentoring Semyon Varlamov while trying to win a Cup?

Obviously, the money is a huge factor.  That is a hefty chunk of change to give up.  Let’s say he is willing to sign with a Cup contender for less money and less playing time.  I believe Varly could learn a ton from the veteran Nabokov.  If nothing else, just being in the room with Nabby, Varlamov could learn some things about what it takes to be a long term starter in the NHL.

Despite the idealistic view that Nabokov could somehow put the financial decision aside, this deal is not likely. The Capitals’ needs at defense and center far outweigh any perceived gap in the crease.  I would be surprised if GM George McPhee is even considering contacting Evgeni Nabokov’s agent.  Much like the Sharks, the Caps also have a young stable of goaltenders waiting in the organization for their shot at the NHL.