Quote:
Originally Posted by CsInMyBlood
I believe it will get done before the season starts. Matthew knows how important it is for this team to get off to a good start and wont want to drag the team down.
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I kind of disagree. I don't know if it is more so than the past, but these players are independent contractors (mercanaries to a degree).
A poor start for the team while he misses out kind of plays into the player's favor. I also think that every contending team knows they have a defined window. Eating up a year while the core is locked in (in the flames case, key players hitting their prime, Norris trophy d that isn't getting any younger) is also another pressure point for the team/gm.
No doubt that there is a game of chicken being played by these RFAs and the team, but i think that the players have all the leverage here and can afford not to flinch.
Also, F the leafs... Mathews contract is definitely a major game changer. He got the salary AND the term, rather than the team gaining something for not extending into UFA year's (ie. A win-win for the player). That contract has changed the playing field and the general parameters of the modern day bridge deal.