This is the route I would like the Flames to go. 8 years at around $7.5 million is a bit much for a small winger IMO. I'd rather see them sign him 2 years for an AAV of 6 to 6.5 and then see how things play out. The only way I see Johnny demanding much more than $7.5 in 2 years is if the Cap goes way up or his production stays around the same or improves. If either of those situations happen the Flames would be happy as they would get a huge benefit with the rest of their core locked up on very good deals or Johnny scores 80+ for the next 2 years and proves to be a legit Art Ross Candidate every year
If Johnny gets hurt, doesn't improve on his numbers, the team does not improve with him as the go to guy or he does not perform well in playoffs I could see him at most demanding $7.5 to $8.5 million in 2 years. I'm ok with taking a chance on him having a $8.5 mil cap hit in 2 years to get him for 2 more years at less than 7
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