Mitch Marner changes free agent financial landscape
Detroit is making additions by signing prospects like Jesse Kiiskinen. The team still needs to make a splash by bringing in NHL talent. A new rumor may make that a difficult prospect for GM Steve Yzerman.
Mitch Marner may be in line to make over 14 million dollars AAV on his next deal. The Anaheim Ducks are named as a team that would make that offer. If a rising tide lifts all boats, the market may be too rich for the Red Wings.
INTERNAL CAP STRUCTURE:
In his end of year press conference, Yzerman indicated they would examine the market. However, there is an internal structure that limits spending. Highly touted prospects will need raises over the next couple of seasons.
Simon Edvinsson saw his deployment raised at the end of last year. The 6’6” defenseman was seeing time on a top pairing with Moritz Seider. In a contract year, a strong performance could see a significant salary raise. It will be interesting to see if Detroit looks for another max term deal.
Marco Kasper is another prospect on the rise. In his rookie season, Kasper saw a shift from wing to center. He tallied 19 goals and 18 assists in 77 games. With 2 years left on the current deal, Kasper could see a sizeable raise if he continues to grow his game.
Red Wings: Needs and future growth
Detroit is in an unenviable position in terms of roster additions. While the team has over 21 million dollars in cap space, it may quickly disappear. A buyout for Justin Holl is just one potential upcoming expense.
Still, the team needs to take a big step forward. A trade or acquisition of an RFA may be a stronger option for the club. Mitch Marner stands on the precipice of creating an increasing salary structure. This may not be a year where Detroit can make a splash in the UFA pool.
Anyone paying Marner 14 mil/ year is crazy. He’s a great player but isn’t worth that kind of money. What do you think McDavid will command next contract if Marner gets that kind of dough?
I think McDavid will get as close to the max % as possible regardless. But yeah, the proposed $ for Marner is going to resonate through the market. I think it’s crazy, but it sounds like CBJ is now acknowledging they’ll be looking at him. If there’s any kind of “bidding war”, wow. I have trouble seeing him make more than McDavid or Draisaitl, but the open market is, well, wide open. The rumor mill will spin until he makes a decision. His final $ is going to depend (in part) on priority of getting the most possible vs playing for a contending team. Should be an interesting watch