Top 10 Bang-for-Buck NHL Contracts From 2023-24 The Hockey News
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Top 10 Bang-for-Buck NHL Contracts in the 2023-24 Season
The 2023-24 NHL season is set to showcase some incredible talent, but it’s the players on value contracts who can make a significant impact on their teams. In this article, we will explore the top 10 bang-for-buck NHL contracts this season, highlighting players who offer exceptional performance relative to their salaries.
What Makes a Bang-for-Buck Contract?
A bang-for-buck contract refers to a player whose on-ice performance significantly exceeds their salary. Teams with players on these contracts can allocate more resources to other areas, enhancing overall team performance. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating these contracts:
- Performance Metrics: Goals, assists, plus/minus, and advanced stats like Corsi and PDO.
- Salary Cap Impact: The player’s salary relative to their contributions.
- Future Potential: Upside potential for growth and improvement.
Top 10 Bang-for-Buck NHL Contracts in 2023-24
| Player | Team | Annual Salary (USD) | 2022-23 Points | 2023-24 Projection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthony Cirelli | Tampa Bay Lightning | $4.8M | 49 | 55 |
| Kirill Kaprizov | Minnesota Wild | $9M | 70 | 80 |
| Roope Hintz | Dallas Stars | $3.15M | 72 | 75 |
| Matt Duchene | Nashville Predators | $8M | 56 | 65 |
| Andrei Svechnikov | Carolina Hurricanes | $7.75M | 69 | 75 |
| David Pastrnak | Boston Bruins | $6.67M | 77 | 85 |
| Jaccob Slavin | Carolina Hurricanes | $5.3M | 36 | 40 |
| Adam Fox | New York Rangers | $9.5M | 74 | 80 |
| Gabriel Landeskog | Colorado Avalanche | $7M | 65 | 70 |
| Chris Kreider | New York Rangers | $4.625M | 77 | 75 |
1. Anthony Cirelli - Tampa Bay Lightning
Cirelli is a two-way forward who not only contributes offensively but also excels in defensive situations. With a salary of $4.8 million, he’s a crucial part of Tampa Bay’s lineup, delivering performance that far exceeds his salary cap hit.
2. Kirill Kaprizov – Minnesota Wild
Kaprizov remains one of the most electrifying forwards in the league. At $9 million per year, his ability to generate scoring chances justifies his value, making him one of the top players to watch in the upcoming season.
3. Roope Hintz – Dallas Stars
With a cap hit of only $3.15 million, Hintz offers incredible value. His combination of speed and skill translates into high offensive output, making him a valuable asset for Dallas.
4. Matt Duchene – Nashville Predators
Duchene’s $8 million contract is a testament to his scoring ability. Despite fluctuations in previous seasons, he remains a pivotal player for the Predators and is expected to bounce back strongly this year.
5. Andrei Svechnikov – Carolina Hurricanes
At $7.75 million, Svechnikov is proving to be a true game-changer. His young age coupled with impressive scoring stats makes his contract one of the best in the league.
6. David Pastrnak – Boston Bruins
Pastrnak’s $6.67 million salary is a steal for a player who consistently puts up points. His offensive prowess makes him a critical component of the Bruins’ success.
7. Jaccob Slavin – Carolina Hurricanes
Slavin is one of the best defensemen in the league with a very reasonable contract of $5.3 million. His defensive skills and ability to contribute offensively make him a player worth every penny.
8. Adam Fox – New York Rangers
Fox’s $9.5 million contract reflects his impact on the ice. As a Norris Trophy winner, his performance justifies the investment, and he continues to be one of the best defensemen in the NHL.
9. Gabriel Landeskog – Colorado Avalanche
Landeskog, at $7 million, remains an instrumental leader on the Avalanche. His combination of leadership and skill makes this contract a valuable investment for the franchise.
10. Chris Kreider – New York Rangers
Kreider’s $4.625 million cap hit is incredibly team-friendly considering his scoring ability. He consistently contributes to the Rangers’ offence and is considered a bargain for his production.
Benefits of Identifying Bang-for-Buck Contracts
Finding players with bang-for-buck contracts can significantly impact a team’s success. Here are some benefits:
- Cap Flexibility: Allows teams to allocate funds to bolster weak areas.
- Team Chemistry: Players who are undervalued often contribute to a more cohesive locker room atmosphere.
- Increased Competitiveness: Teams with value contracts often perform better as they can field stronger lineups.
Practical Tips for Teams Looking for Value Contracts
To optimize roster construction, teams should:
- Utilize advanced statistics to identify underappreciated players.
- Focus on young talent with potential upside.
- Monitor players in contract years, as they often perform at higher levels.
Conclusion
Identifying bang-for-buck contracts can transform a franchise. By analyzing player performance and salary, teams can make informed decisions that pave the way for success in the NHL.
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