If Teams are Interested, What Could be a Price for Greiss?

Detroit Red Wings goaltender Thomas Greiss has certainly seen a roller coaster of a performance this past week. He had a quality performance against the Calgary Flames, making 40 saves on 43 shots. Days later, he surrenders three goals on six shots.

Mirroring what has been an inconsistent year, Greiss is an interesting trade target for a team needing depth. Greiss’ numbers may be gaudy, but a look at Detroit’s defensive situation provides some context. Last season, Greiss was on fire during the final month of the season. Could he repeat that history for another team?

Greiss could be appealing to a few teams but the return would realistically be modest.

Option 1: Vegas Golden Knights

Vegas has been spiraling for some time now and though Marc-Andre Fleury has been linked with them, Greiss would make sense for a couple of reasons.

He already knows Robin Lehner well, having secured a Jennings Trophy with him back in 2019. But the two were close in New York, a factor that could potentially lead to a reunion. One potential hitch to those plans are reports that Lehner could miss the remainder of the season with a knee injury. But if they’re desperate enough, a deal could happen.

Why It Happens: It wouldn’t cost Vegas much. Greiss’ numbers are pedestrian and a reeling Golden Knights team would be reluctant to give much. A 2023 3rd round pick would seem high-end while a 2023 4th rounder seems like a better bet. The Red Wings would also have to eat some salary, too.

Why it doesn’t happen: Greiss has been inconsistent and it’s the last thing Vegas needs. Already fighting to stay in the playoff hunt, they may opt for a more battle tested and consistent netminder.

Option 2: Edmonton Oilers

Ken Holland has put his faith in Mike Smith and Mikko Koskinen. Though things are better now, Smith’s health is a constant concern and an insurance policy in the way of Greiss could come at a reasonable price.

Why it Happens: Holland loves his veterans, and Greiss certainly fits the bill. His playoff experience in New York would also be enticing. Not to mention the Smith injury factor. Similar to Vegas, it could come cheaply or knowing that Holland can sometimes overpay, it’s not crazy to think a 2023 2nd round pick contingent on a Stanley Cup appearance and games played could happen. But a future third or fourth seems far more likely.

Why it won’t Happen: Holland likes his team. He’ll work the phones and kick some tires, but likely stay with what he already has.

Option 3: Washington Capitals

Since the calendar has turned to March, the Caps have won six of their last seven games. Goaltending was a question mark for some time before that, and maybe the Caps are seeking insurance. DHN’s Kevin Allen wrote a few weeks ago that Washington could be a landing spot, but reports out of the nation’s capitol seemed to indicate otherwise.

Why it Happens: The Caps seek that insurance and strike a deal with Yzerman for a reasonable price. Yielding another draft pick to Detroit in 2022 seems unlikely, so a 2023 4th round pick seems the best bet. A 3rd rounder could also come with strings.

Why it doesn’t happen: If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Washington is rolling right now and doing anything to upset that might not be in its best interest.