The good news is that, given that Johnny didn't sign before the season, how this year is unfolding is the best scenario for both him and the team.
Despite the panic and dejection... And the weird saying goodbye to Johnny in French on a game day, the flames are in a good spot to get the deal done. It's just going to cost.
He likes it here. He has matured over the last 2 years. He's successful here on a team having success. Anyone who's paying attention knows that Sutter has been key to his overall game. Guess who has been paying attention and is a career coach? Guy Gaudreau. You don't think he knows how valuable a Sutter is for his son. Does anyone have Johnny's ear more than Guy? He's the person who told Johnny to go to Calgary in the first place.
So Calgary is a good to great option for Johnny and can pay top dollar. What are the other vaunted options with 10 million in cap space? People keep saying Philly. Ok, home town... Everyone's got one. Team is nose diving. Could be going through a wholesale rebuild. Mike Yeo is their coach. Their moves last offseason were rank. Could they offer 10 to Johnny? Maybe... Does it make any sense at all for them or him? I don't think so.
All signs point to him signing a big deal here.
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