Quote:
Originally Posted by Fire of the Phoenix
In the end it doesn't matter, yet this thread exists and people post in it for some reason...
Are you telling me that if they aren't signed by Aug 14 that you won't be concerned or care? What is your cut off date and why is it the right one compared to everyone else?
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In the end it won't matter when they sign, if they end up signing and signing long term. I do agree, the longer it goes the higher the "likelyhood" is that the Flames might not get the contracts they want out of this (I don't think there is any risk in regards to them not signing (obviously)).
I think everyone's worry is with Johnny, and I think it all stems around this belief (for understandable reasons) that he may want to go back east as quickly as possible. However, I do think people are underestimating the potential that Johnny's camp may be pushing for a shorter term deal also because they think it might be the bigger money maker long term. There's risk to it, but this could be more about the dollar amount (and giving up UFA years) than it is I want to be UFA as quickly as possible so I can go east.
While this dragging out can be a little worrisome, on the flip side it's hard to ignore the positives as well. Tones of positive statements from both Johnny and Sean so far, which could just be good media training, but is also very rare if when things go really sour in negotiations. Also, things in general seem to be taking longer with similar players on other teams this year too, so this could also just be a sign of the times given the un-certain cap with the Canadian dollar, and given we really are at the front end of upcoming future franchise players locking in 7 to 8 year contracts this early on..........both players and teams are likely treading lightly.