Flames ownership group came out and gave the mandate to management (I think the season Burke took over, but maybe the season prior?) to not nickel and dime a player, and to just pay them what they are worth.
With that being said, if the Flames are going to nickel and dime a contract, this might be the one to do it on. Why? Because it will set the upper-limit relative to all future contracts. The cheaper you get Gaudreau, the cheaper Bennett will probably be, the cheaper the 2016 pick will end up being, and it should have a trickle-down effect.
It will become easier to surround Gaudreau and the rest of the 'core' with legitimate talent anyways.
Now, you don't nickel and dime to the point you make the player feel like he is underappreciated. Last thing the Flames should do is piss off their superstar. I just hope that Gaudreau takes a bit of a discount on a long-term deal. While an 8x8 is in the ballpark of being (+/- .5million), I really hope he signs for 7. Anything below that, and it is a huge bargain for the Flames.
Really curious to see what Monahan signs for as well. Should be relatively close to Gaudreau's contract.
|