This is a fair deal for both sides, and really sets the team up nicely going forward.
It's a nice compromise, giving Gio 6 years of security to keep it under $7M. And while 'late bloomer' doesn't mean anything, it is definitely valid to say that, because of injuries and lack of playoffs, he has really low miles on his odometer so far. Being signed to 38 has less risk as a result, IMO (and is the price you pay to keep the AAV at a good level).
Having Giordano, Brodie and Hamilton signed for the next 5 years at just over $17M is absolutely beautiful. Over the next 3 years, some combination of Wotherspoon, Morrison, Hickey, Kylington and Andersson will replace the other guys with ELCs or 2nd contracts.
The Flames will have an excellent defense, at a reasonable price, for the foreseeable future. That sure makes managing the team a lot easier.
And no, this does not mean Russell is gone (unless a kid makes him expendable before he is re-signed, which I doubt)
|