The Calgary Flames struck a deal with the Arizona Coyotes, acquiring netminder Mike Smith.
Headed the other way is unrestricted free agent goalie Chad Johnson, Boston University defenceman Brandon Hickey, and a third round pick which would become a second-rounder if the Flames make the playoffs.
Flames general manager Brad Treliving struck the deal hours before submitting the team’s protected list for the upcoming National Hockey League expansion draft.
The deal basically seals the fate of Brian Elliott, who is also set to become a UFA on July 1 and will likely be left unprotected. Treliving said earlier this week that the Flames would be protecting seven forwards, three defencemen, and one goalie.