Avalanche can't afford to let history repeat itself with another superstar
Photo credit: NHL.com
After the missteps surrounding Mikko Rantanen's contract, the Colorado Avalanche can't afford to make the same mistake as Martin Necas nears the end of his deal.
While it may be advantageous for Necas to hold out on contract talks to see where the market is at, the Avalanche need to begin negotiations now, before it's too late.
Contract talks need to happen now between superstar Martin Necas and the Avalanche.
Ryan O'Hara of Mile High Sticking recently wrote about the urgency the Avalanche need to have with Necas and his extension negotiations.
"Yet historical precedent warrants caution. Initially, Colorado appeared on track to secure Mikko Rantanen's extension with minimal friction. That trajectory shifted dramatically once Leon Draisaitl inked his eight-year, $112 million ($14 million AAV) contract extension with the Edmonton Oilers. Rantanen pursued comparable compensation, resulting in a yearlong impasse that ultimately concluded when Chris MacFarland, fatigued by the stalemate, executed the trade that divided the fanbase at its core." -O'Hara
Moreover, the salary cap is rising significantly in the next few years, meaning the bar will be set much higher for the league's superstars.
For context, Connor McDavid is already projected to earn over $18 million. If Necas delays his extension until after McDavid's deal, he could demand a significant raise, much like what Rantanen and Draisaitl received.
While Necas is nowhere near the value of McDavid, it creates a precedent for future contracts.
"A comparable scenario may be unfolding in Minnesota. Like the Avalanche, the Wild have an impending UFA reluctant to sign right away. Superstar Kirill Kaprizov reportedly declined a $128 million contract extension earlier this month-an agreement that would have vaulted him to the status of the highest-paid player in NHL history. While Wild general manager Bill Guerin suggested the reports were inaccurate, subsequent coverage indicates that negotiations have, at minimum, stalled for the time being." -O'Hara
The Avalanche need to act quickly with Necas, beginning extension talks within the first month of the season. If another superstar finalizes a deal before him, the team risks repeating past mistakes.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 17 | 29 ANSWERS Avalanche can't afford to let history repeat itself with another superstar Will the Colorado Avalanche secure a contract extension with Martin Necas before another superstar deal drives up his asking price? | ||
| yes | 14 | 48.3 % |
| no | 15 | 51.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
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