Jonas Hiller Done in Calgary After Disastrous Season
Jonas Hiller has played his last game for the Calgary Flames, and much like his entire season, it was not one to remember.
Calgary Flames GM Brad Treliving passed the news on to Hiller, informing him that he will not be back with the club, and instead will become a free agent this summer.
March 30th was the last time Hiller saw any action between the pipes. He started against his former team, the Anaheim Ducks, and was torched for a quick three goals in the first 6:51 of the opening period.
Fans and management had high hopes after Hiller helped the Flames to the playoffs last season. Unfortunately, he followed that up with career worsts in almost every category. Hiller ended the season with a 3.51 goals against average and a .879 save percentage. His final record was 9-11-1.
For the Flames, they’ll be searching for a brand new starter in the offseason. This could come via trade, free agency, or even internally.
Jimmy Howard had been linked to the Flames in the past. However, Detroit may not be willing to pull the trigger on any deal after Petr Mrazek’s late season struggles.
In free agency, James Reimer continues to pop up in rumors. Reimer is currently fitting in very nicely with the San Jose Sharks, though, after compiling three shutouts in eight starts after being traded from Toronto.
Karri Ramo and Joni Ortio also started games for the Flames this season. Ramo is also scheduled to become a free agent this summer if he is not re-signed. Similarly, Ortio will become a restricted free agent.
Hiller, on the other hand, will likely be searching for a job as a backup somewhere. His play this season was definitely not strong enough to put him in consideration for a starting job.