Quote:
Originally Posted by Cole436
Not going to happen. Gaudreau has literally no leverage here. If he ever wants to play NHL hockey again, he is at the mercy of the Flames. There's no offer sheet to play with, or fear or UFA. If he doesn't sign a deal that works for the Flames, unless he wants to play in Europe for the next 5 years, he just won't play hockey.
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Not much logic here. Gaudreau has a ton of leverage. When has a similar situation ever worked out well for a team? He's their best player, it does the flames no good to get into a prolonged contract dispute/negotiation with him. They are a worse team with out him in the line up. Full stop. He's a huge draw here in Calgary and elsewhere. He sells tickets & merchandise. He is an asset. The flames had better get him signed to a long term contract, or deal him before the season starts. They would get a enormous package for him. He is one of the most skilled players in the league. There is almost no one else in the league like him. Closest comparable would have to be Kane, or maybe datsyuk (even though he's gone).
He was a top 10 scorer in the league in his second season. It's likely he will be a top five scorer for the next decade plus/minus a few years on either side. He makes players around him better & might be the most skilled player the flames have ever had in their line up.
If I'm Jonny and his agent, I'm not even answering the phone if the conversation starts with anything less than 8 for 7 years. If the flames want 8 years, the price goes up.