Raanta's unclaimed status through waivers, despite a significantly lower salary of $1.5 million compared to Allen's $3.85 million contract, is quite revealing. It suggests that the market for goaltenders, especially those considered more as backups or 1B options, is quite tight. Raanta's poor performance this season with a .854 save percentage certainly didn't help his case, whereas Allen has maintained a more respectable .901 save percentage.
The fact that no team claimed Raanta, despite his lower salary and the general demand for experienced goaltending, might indicate that finding a trade for Allen could be challenging for Canadiens GM Kent Hughes. Teams might be reluctant to take on Allen's contract, and Montreal might have to consider retaining some salary or adding incentives to facilitate a trade.
Ultimately, the Canadiens' decision will depend on balancing their immediate needs against their long-term plans, including salary cap management and player development. It seems more plausible for Montreal to keep Allen until they find a suitable trade partner, potentially involving salary retention or a package deal, rather than waiving him to the AHL.
