Flames Trade David Rittich To Toronto

The Flames announced late Sunday night that they have traded back up goaltender David Rittich to the Toronto Maple Leafs. According to reports the Flames will receive a 2022 third round pick in the NHL Draft in return for the netminder.

Rittich was set to become a UFA at season’s end and would most surely be looking for a place to start as opposed to staying with the Flames. So getting something for a player such as Rittich seems like a smart move, as the Flames are heading towards non playoff territory this season.

Rittich has appeared in 15 games for the Flames this season, starting 12 and compiling at 4-7-1 record with a 2.90 goals against and a team best Save% of .904. This season he pitched the Flames only shut out ever in Toronto, a 3-0 victory back on February 22nd.

At one point Rittich appeared to be the heir apparent in net, but Calgary always seemed to view him as a back up or “1B” type player. He was never able to get over the hump and had to sit behind Mike Smith, Cam Talbot and this season Jacob Markstrom.

The Czech born goalie has spent five seasons with the Calgary Flames, starting 118 games with a record of 63-39-15 and sporting a respectable .908 Save% and a 2.83 GAA.

The fiery keeper has had some durability issues while in Calgary, as he's never been able to carry the workload of a true top goalie. Odd, late season injuries have derailed what were promising seasons and he's only appeared in one playoff game with Calgary, an appearance last season where he surrendered three goals on nine shots.

The Flames will most likely ride Jacob Markstrom the rest of the way with a spot start or two potentially coming from Artyom Zagidulin.