Goalie rankings in tiers, with the #1 tier being the best.

Jimmy Howard is listed as a tier 5 goalie.

from Craig Custance of The Athletic,

... here’s a breakdown of the 10-person panel, one that was given anonymity to encourage honesty: Five NHL general managers, two NHL head coaches and three goalie coaches. The results were averaged and divided into tiers.

27. Jimmy Howard, Detroit Red Wings
Average rating: 3.30

To his credit, Howard has re-invented his game and modernized it while providing a steady presence for the rebuilding Red Wings. But at 34 years old, his issues staying healthy probably aren’t going anywhere.

He’s entering a contract year so he’ll be motivated and could be available for contending teams looking for a short-term fix in goal.

“I like him,” said an Eastern Conference GM. “He was really good last year. It’s going to be really hard on him with that team this season...."

more ($$$) goalies listed in tiers...