Quote:
Originally Posted by CliffFletcher
I agree that the true, long-term ramifications of the cap are now manifesting in the NHL. Each team will have: a core of key players getting big bucks signed long term; a handful of veterans earning mid-range salaries; the bulk of the roster young players or journeymen on entry-level contracts. The Hawks have 6 roster players earning over $5 mil, and 9 earning under $1 mil. Having a steady influx of young players on entry-level contracts who can really contribute is essential for long-term success. Really good players rarely reach free agency. That means this has become a draft and develop league where draft picks are your lifeblood.
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I get what oh are saying, but first rounders can be a cap killer too. Performance bonuses of first rounders can screw a team and put them in cap hell. If McDavid hits his bonuses the Oilers are over the cap next year. Young players are the lifeblood of the hockey team, but you have to hope that it is not your first rounders who achieve greatly. You have to hope that it's your later packs that have lower salaries, and lower bonuses, that achieve the greatest success.
On the article, I don't really agree with the sentiment. I think we will see prices increase as more teams find out where the stand towards the deadline. Teams will begin to spend once they are much more confident if they have a series chance of going deep in the playoffs.