Jake Allen was a logical candidate for the Edmonton Oilers, but perhaps it's ultimately the Los Angeles Kings who should be keeping an eye on this matter.
The veteran continues to be involved in trade rumors as the deadline approaches and the Montreal Canadiens still have three goaltenders on their roster at midseason.
Kent Hughes was clear: Allen is respected in the locker room and demoting him to the American League with the Laval Rocket is out of the question.
So the solution lies in exchange. According to noted Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman, everything pointed to Allen eventually becoming a member of the Edmonton Oilers.
“I really thought Allen was going to Edmonton,” Friedman said in a recording of the “32 Thoughts” podcast. Now I’m not convinced it’s going to happen.”
Friedman (32TP): “I really think there was a time this year where I thought Jake Allen was going to be in Edmonton, but now I’m not convinced that’s going to happen.”
– NHL Observer (@NHL_Watcher) January 19, 2024
The Kings are reportedly looking to add a goalie to their roster.
“I think they’re going to sign a goalie,” Friedman predicted. Whether it’s Allen or whoever, they’re going to get a goalie.”
Friedman on Kings (32TP): “I think they’re going to add a goalie, I do. I think they’re going to add a goalie, whether it’s Allen or someone else, I think they’re going to add a goalie.”
– NHL Observer (@NHL_Watcher) January 19, 2024
The 33-year-old Allen has a 5-8-2 record this season, a 3.49 goals-against average and a .901 save percentage. He was automatically scheduled to play Saturday night against the Boston Bruins.
His contract will be difficult to trade. It has an average annual value of $3.85 million and is valid until 2025.