In the realm of the NHL, the spotlight shines on the Detroit Red Wings as they negotiate the future of their young stars, Lucas Raymond and Moritz Seider. Concurrently, intrigue builds around the Dallas Stars’ approach with Thomas Harley, amid a relatively quiet trade market for Patrik Laine.
Red Wings Progress with Seider and Raymond
Insights from Luke Fox of Sportsnet depict a promising scenario for the Detroit Red Wings, particularly with their restricted free agents (RFAs). The team might soon lock down Moritz Seider, a key defenseman, with an extension that could mirror significant deals seen around the league.
Drawing comparisons with recent substantial contracts, such as Jake Sanderson’s deal with Ottawa, an eight-year agreement worth about $8.6 million annually is anticipated for Seider. This contract would make him the highest-paid defenseman on the team, narrowly trailing captain Dylan Larkin.
In contrast, negotiations with forward Lucas Raymond lean towards a shorter tenure. Echoing Yzerman’s cautiousness towards long-term commitments, Raymond might secure a deal around the ballpark of four years, reminiscent of Alex DeBrincat’s $7.875 million contract. Despite a trend toward shorter contracts, Raymond expressed a deep fondness for Detroit, hinting at openness to a longer engagement if it aligns with team strategies.
Dallas Stars and Thomas Harley: A Calculated Approach
The Dallas Stars appear to be taking a methodical approach with defenseman Thomas Harley. Following a pattern of nurturing talent patiently, General Manager Jim Nill may offer Harley a bridge deal, considering his limited full-season NHL experience.
Dallas aims to bolster its defensive lineup, already fortified by veterans Miro Heiskanen and Esa Lindell, along with newer additions like Matt Dumba and Ilya Lyubushkin. A strategic early long-term contract for Harley could mimic the successful bet Nill once made with John Klingberg.
Patrik Laine’s Uncertain Future
The trade scenario surrounding Patrik Laine remains tepid, as reported by Brian Hedger of ‘The Columbus Dispatch.’ Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell indicated minimal market movement with only slight interest shown by one team. Laine, who has resumed activities after a stint in the NHL/NHLPA assistance program, faces a complex trade possibility given his hefty $8 million AAV contract and a no-trade clause restricting options.
Michael McLeod’s Shift to the KHL
In other news, former New Jersey Devils’ forward Michael McLeod has ventured to Kazakhstan, signing a one-year deal with Barys Astana in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). McLeod, along with four others, awaits trial related to charges from an alleged incident involving the Canadian men’s junior team in 2018.
As the NHL offseason continues, the chessboard of contracts and trades keeps fans and analysts on edge, awaiting the next big play in professional hockey.
