The Avalanche appear to be comfortable moving forward with Philipp Grubauer entrenched as their starting goaltender, but the backup position seems to be up for grabs. Johansson has a chance to establish himself as the No. 2 option in Denver, especially since veteran Pavel Francouz is injured.

The Sabres need goaltending, so it is a bit curious that they decided to part ways with Johansson at this time. Perhaps GM Kevyn Adams did not see the big Swede as a long-term solution, so Adams decided to get what he could (a sixth-rounder) in exchange for Johansson's services.

Johansson might be able to work his way into a backup role with the Avalanche, so he might become a decent handcuff option for Grubauer owners. There is still some untapped upside with Johansson.