Best case scenario is after next season. Guys like Smid, Engeland, Raymond and Wideman come off the books and gives us about 14 million in Cap Space and more than likely only Bennett as someone who will demand a raise.
I do like how things are shaping up after next year when it comes to the cap and age of our players. Timing could work in the flames advantage with only 1 concern of Giordano's play as he gets into his mid 30s. Assuming that Gaudreau and Monahan are locked up for 6-8 years this summer having Gio, Johnny, Monny, Brodie, Dougie wrapped up for 4 years straight at an average cap hit of around 6 in a cap world where more and more guys are getting 9-10 million a year is a great start
I also see Bennett burning an ELC last year as a positive as a 35 point rookie year and one year left on his contract could mean a favorable contract. Only way he gets 6 is if he has an amazing year next year and I'm sure we all take that
This years lottery plays a big part too. If we draft top 3 and end up with another top 6 forward who is guaranteed to be here for 7 years at minimum I think with all the cap space all that is needed is maybe a goalie and better depth.
I also see lots of talent coming from the prospects over the next 3 years as well that depth players could be filled through the farm not through UFA. This always helps as having guys like Ferland at 875k vs Stajan types at 3 plus mil helps keep and add to top end of your core
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