No Such Thing As A ‘Free’ Agent
In a way it’s ironic that the NHL and NHLPA use the terms “Free” Agency. Judging by some of the projected offers for the few marquee players on offer, they’re about as far afield from that designator as you can be and still sign a valid contract. Tampa Bay (complete with new ownership) has gotten the silly season well and truly under way, signing the moderately successful Ryan Malone to an impressive seven year deal, worth around $4.4M per year.
Marian Hossa (also part of Pittsburgh’s Stanley Cup Finalist team), has reportedly turned down a five to six year deal worth $7M per year, because he thinks he can get $8M on the open market. Sharks (and former Sabres) defenseman Brian Campbell is looking at a potential $7M or so per year, despite having scored more than eight goals only once in his eight seasons in the NHL.