Alexandar Georgiev has been wanting a trade from the Rangers and he finally got it.
New York announced they made a deal with the Stanley Cup-champion Colorado Avalanche to send Georgiev in exchange for a third- and fifth-round 2022 NHL Draft pick as well as a third-rounder for the 2023 Draft.
With Igor Shesterkin locking down the starting position for years to come after his incredible 2021-22 campaign, Georgiev requested to be moved prior to the NHL trade deadline. And it was suggested that the Rangers do it before Monday's 5 p.m. deadline as his $2.65 million qualifying offer would kick in.
Now both parties can be happy, with the Rangers freeing up much-needed cap space to go after more impactful positions and Georgiev getting the fresh start he wanted.
He is a starting-caliber netminder, owning a career .908 save percentage in 129 games played. Last season was actually his worst mark in that category at .898 with 2.92 goals against per game.
Expectations are that Darcy Kuemper, the Avalanche goaltender whose contract was up after this past season, won't be returning considering their cap situation and that $2.65 million now on their books. Kuemper is expected to have a good payday.
So Georgiev will have a clear shot to start for the reigning champions once the new year rolls around.