With September just days away and NHL training camps set to open in a few weeks, there’s still plenty of business left to tackle. As we start Wednesday, PuckPedia reports that there are still 21 unsigned restricted free agents (RFAs) — many of whom hold significant roles within their teams.
Below are some updates from across the league regarding several prominent RFAs who are still awaiting their new contracts.
Seth Jarvis, Carolina
While much of the focus this summer has been on the pending RFA situation of forward Martin Nečas, it’s crucial that the Canes finalize a contract with their standout player, Seth Jarvis. As of August 28, a deal has yet to materialize.
On Tuesday, David Pagnotta from The Fourth Period reported that negotiations are underway for a long-term commitment, potentially spanning 7-8 years, with a projected average annual value (AAV) of $7.5 million.
Jeremy Swayman, Boston
Recently, I’ve highlighted the situation of the Boston Bruins, who boasted the top goalie tandem in the NHL until now, with neither player currently signed. After trading Linus Ullmark to Ottawa, the team still hasn’t secured Jeremy Swayman. Reports suggest he’s seeking an AAV close to $10 million, a figure that the Bruins are hesitant to meet.
On a related note, Swayman shared his thoughts during a podcast appearance, discussing his efforts to understand the business side of hockey over the past year and the obligations he feels towards the broader goalie market in the near future.
Nick Robertson, Toronto
Chris Johnston from The Athletic and TSN provided an update on Maple Leafs RFA Nick Robertson during the ’First Up’ podcast hosted by Aaron Korolnek and Carlo Colaiacovo. It seems that the 22-year-old winger may not be interested in continuing with the Leafs.
“At this stage, Nick Robertson doesn’t seem inclined to sign in Toronto and is sticking to the idea that he’d like to play somewhere else next season. There’s a path for him to play
Given the Leafs’ depth chart at left wing, it makes a lot of sense for him and the team to potentially come together, although I’m uncertain if that will actually occur.
Last season, he netted 14 goals and registered 13 assists across 56 NHL games. Although he’s not a large forward (standing at 5-9 and weighing 178 pounds), he possesses undeniable skill. This scenario piques my interest… According to PuckPedia, the Leafs currently have $1,275,333 in cap space available.
Cole Perfetti, Winnipeg
On Tuesday night, Pagnotta from The Fourth Period tweeted that the Jets and forward Cole Perfetti are continuing discussions regarding his next contract. However, there remains a disagreement concerning the term and financial details.
“Conversations around the NHL suggest that a 2-year bridge deal may be possible ($4M+ per year?). If the Jets prefer a long-term agreement, I believe Cole would be amenable to that, though it would come with a significantly higher AAV. We’ll see how things evolve.”
The 22-year-old center scored 19 goals in 71 regular-season games last year with the Jets. Many would consider him a key player for Winnipeg’s future, especially since he was selected 10th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft. It will be interesting to see how this situation unfolds, especially since Winnipeg is in the same division as the Blackhawks.
Dawson Mercer, New Jersey
Mercer is an impressive center who doesn’t quite get the recognition he deserves. He will turn 23 on October 27 and has played in all 82 regular-season games over his first three NHL seasons, scoring 27 and 20 goals in the past two years, respectively. Currently, PuckPedia shows that the Devils have just under $5M in cap space, and Pagnotta reports that while things are “not close,” discussions are ongoing.
Other RFAs
- Pagnotta notes that the Red Wings and Lucas Raymond are “not close” to an agreement.
- Additionally, Pagnotta tweeted yesterday that talks are “ongoing” between Dallas and defenseman Thomas Harley.
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NHL RFA Watch: Key Players Still Seeking Contracts as Training Camps Approach
The NHL offseason is always a pivotal time for teams and players alike, especially as training camps approach. One of the most critical aspects of the offseason is the status of restricted free agents (RFAs). As the start of the season looms closer, several key players remain without contracts, raising questions about their futures and the strategies their teams might deploy. This article will provide an in-depth look at notable RFAs still seeking contracts, the implications for their teams, and practical tips for fans monitoring the situation.
Understanding Restricted Free Agency in the NHL
Restricted free agency occurs when a player’s contract expires, and they still have a qualifying offer from their current team. RFAs have limited options as they can either accept the qualifying offer or negotiate a new contract. If they choose not to sign, they cannot join other teams unless their current team decides to let them go.
Key Terms in RFA Contracts
- Qualifying Offer: A one-year contract that allows teams to retain their rights to the player.
- Arbitration Rights: Some RFAs can seek arbitration if negotiations fail, allowing a third party to determine their contract value.
- Offer Sheet: Other teams can sign an RFA to an offer sheet, requiring compensation to the player’s current team if accepted.
Notable RFAs Still Seeking Contracts
As of mid-September 2023, several high-profile RFAs are still without contracts. Here’s a look at some of the most notable players:
| Player | Position | 2022-2023 Stats | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alexandar Georgiev | Goaltender | 30 Wins, 2.58 GAA | Negotiating |
| Jason Robertson | Left Wing | 42 Goals, 70 Points | Unresolved |
| Mario Ferraro | Defenseman | 25 Points, +10 | In Discussions |
| Brandon Hagel | Left Wing | 24 Goals, 48 Points | Seeking Contract |
Implications for Teams and Players
The unresolved contracts of these RFAs carry significant implications for both the players and their respective teams. Here are some aspects to consider:
Impact on Team Roster Construction
- Cap Space: Teams need to manage their salary cap effectively, and RFAs can take up valuable cap space if negotiations are prolonged.
- Team Chemistry: Missing key players in training camp can disrupt team chemistry and hinder overall performance.
- Depth Chart Adjustments: Teams may need to adjust their depth charts based on the status of RFAs, impacting their overall strategy.
Player Development
- Training and Conditioning: Players without contracts miss crucial training opportunities that could affect their performance in the upcoming season.
- Marketability: RFAs looking to secure higher contracts may face challenges in building their marketability without being on the ice.
Tracking Contract Negotiations
For fans eager to stay informed about the status of their favorite RFAs, here are some practical tips:
Utilize Social Media
Follow reputable sports journalists and analysts on platforms like Twitter. Many insiders provide real-time updates on contract negotiations and player statuses.
Monitor Official Team Announcements
Check official team websites and press releases for updates on player statuses, contract offers, and any developments related to RFAs.
Join Fan Forums and Discussion Boards
Engage with fellow fans on platforms like Reddit and team-specific forums. These communities often share insights and speculation about player contracts and potential trades.
Case Study: Recent RFA Success Stories
Examining successful RFA negotiations can provide insights into potential outcomes for the current crop of RFAs. Here are a few recent examples:
| Player | Team | Contract Details | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adam Fox | New York Rangers | 7 Years, $66.5M | Key Defenseman |
| Brady Tkachuk | Ottawa Senators | 7 Years, $57.5M | Team Leader |
| Kirill Kaprizov | Minnesota Wild | 5 Years, $45M | Franchise Star |
First-Hand Experience: The RFA Process
While not every fan may experience the RFA process, gaining insights from players who have navigated contract negotiations can be enlightening. Here’s a first-hand experience shared by a former RFA:
“The stress of being an RFA is unlike anything else. You want to prove your worth, but the uncertainty of not knowing where you’ll end up can be nerve-wracking. I relied heavily on my agents and trusted their advice throughout the process. I learned that patience and open communication were key in reaching a satisfactory agreement.” - Former NHL Player
Conclusion
As training camps approach, the clock is ticking for RFAs still seeking contracts. With key players in limbo, teams are grappling with roster implications, while players face uncertainty about their futures. By understanding the RFA process and staying informed, fans can actively engage with the developments that will shape the upcoming NHL season. Keeping an eye on negotiations, utilizing resources, and learning from past experiences can enhance the enjoyment of the game during this pivotal period.
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