Tkachuk: Matthews deal 'definitely set the bar'

[Textcritic]

Originally Posted by GordonBlue

it is a good point. if flames management thinks the next 2-3 years is their best possible window for a cup, retain as much budget flexibility as you can and go for it.
let the chips fall where they may after that.

While I agree with the notion of shortening Tkachuk's term as a means to maximize his present value, I don't believe teams focus too intently on a "window" unless they are in a position like SJ or perhaps Pittsburgh where their best players are nearing or already at the point of slowing down. So much in the League changes so fast that it is virtually impossible to plan much beyond two years anyways. I don't think Flames management would be looking three-years out with a core group of players in their early-to-mid-twenties and thinking that their only shot is now.

[Stillman16]

Originally Posted by RedHawk12

Probably not a popular opinion but I would consider signing Tkachuk to a bridge contract. 3 years @ 5.5M/year.

Allows us to keep basically the entire team together for the next three years and make a hard push in that time. We'd have enough cap space to get another impact player or two as well (if we trade someone like Frolik).

Make a decision on Brodie and Hamonic in a two years. Capitalize on the few good years Gio has left and when our forward core are in their prime.

I think this would be the way players could maximize their earnings, while the team can keep him longer and transition from veterans too.

If he signs a bridge deal for 3 yrs (anything more, and the Flames lose him to UFA at end of deal), as long as it is less than 6 million (for Flames, any more, and the Flames may as well sign the longer term, IMO not saving enough).

This would allow Tkachuk to possibly sign two more big money deals before retirement (plus this bridge deal), while the Flames get at least one more deal from him-total 9-11 more years, possibly more-if he signs again after. So Tkachuk could possibly turn it into another 19 high pay years in the NHL!

If Tkachuk decides he wants the longer term (more certainty/security), the Flames are limited to 8 yrs, with Tkachuk a UFA at deals end. Also Tkachuk likely only has one more big deal after it (will be 29). If signed with the Flames again, another 8 yr deal, if not only 7 with another club. This leaves him with possibly only 15 or 16 yrs of high pay years, as he could be 36 or 37 and looking for a retirement contract, or out of the league!

Of course, Tkachuk could sign a lot of smaller deals, or a long one and smaller after...but more risk, less certainty...no guarantees...

Worst case scenario for the Flames, would be a 4 or 5 yr deal, like Mattews' deal, as the only buy 1 or 2 yrs UFA, and will likely pay full UFA $$$.