With the Carolina Hurricanes assigning Antti Raanta to the AHL and the Los Angeles Kings placing Pheonix Copley on LTIR, goaltending speculation increased over the weekend.

With the NHL's annual holiday roster freeze from Dec. 20 to 27 and the new year fast approaching, several clubs could be shopping around to bolster their roster. According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, the market for goaltenders is drawing the most interest.

The Carolina Hurricanes placed Antti Raanta on waivers over the weekend and loaned him to the AHL's Chicago Wolves. Friedman believed they were seeking help between the pipes, though TSN's Pierre LeBrun claimed nothing was imminent. Perhaps they're waiting on Frederik Andersen, who resumed skating after missing six weeks with a blood clot issue.

Turning to the Los Angeles Kings, Pheonix Copley has been placed on long-term injury reserve. They've called up David Rittich, but Friedman speculated they could be looking for a backup for starter Cam Talbot.

The Edmonton Oilers' goaltending search has been well-documented. With Calvin Pickard playing well, however, Friedman doubted they'd make a move there.

Friedman pointed out that the Montreal Canadiens are carrying three goalies. While he didn't mention which one could move, it'll likely come down to Jake Allen or Cayden Primeau after Sam Montembeault recently signed a three-year contract extension.

Christian Larsen included Allen on his list of four goalies who could help a contender in the New Year, joining Detroit's James Reimer, San Jose's Kaapo Kahkonen and Arizona's Karel Vejmelka.

Vejmelka, 27, could draw the most interest. He started the season as the Coyotes' starter but lost the job in recent weeks to Connor Ingram. ESPN's Kevin Weekes reported Vejmelka was drawing interest from several teams seeking to upgrade their goaltending.

Friedman also mentioned Spencer Martin of the Columbus Blue Jackets as a trade candidate. He was believed among the goalies the Oilers were scouting in late November.