Here's why Jonathan Huberdeau's contract is good news for CH's fans
PUBLICATION
Jeff Drouin
August 5, 2022 (8:29 PM)
As you know, last night we learned some big news, as Jonathan Huberdeau and the Calgary Flames agreed on the terms of a huge contract extension (8 x 10.5 million dollars).
Remember of course that Huberdeau was going to become an unrestricted free agent next summer. He had the option to become free as a bird, offer his services to all 32 NHL teams and sign the contract of his choice, but he just settled with the Calgary Flames.
Remember also that the Calgary Flames traded Matthew Tkachuk to the Florida Panthers earlier this summer for a huge return that includes Jonathan Huberdeau, MacKenzie Weegar, Cole Schwindt and a 1st round pick in 2025.
Given that Huberdeau is in Calgary to stay, many Montreal Canadiens fans are disappointed, but according to former scout Grant McCagg, this is actually good news for the CH.
He explains why:
"Did Chicago become champions a few times because they signed a free agent, with a monster contract? Pittsburgh? What about Tampa or LA? You shouldn't care about a 29 year old Huberdeau signing an $84 million extension. It will be Caufield/Slaf/Suzi and company...that will make MTL successful, not overpriced free agents.
In three years, when Slaf, Suzuki and Caufield are making about $25 million (combined), fans will be thrilled not to have a 32-year-old making $10.5 million and be in a similar situation as the Leafs are today with Tavares." - Grant McCagg
He thinks it's good news for the Habs not to be burdened with such a contract, even though he's happy for Huberdeau and the Flames.
Do you agree with him?
POLL |
Does Huberdeau deserve 8 years $10.5M per year? |
Yes | 78 | 23.5 % |
No, overpaying | 134 | 40.4 % |
It will be an awful contract in 4 years | 120 | 36.1 % |
List of polls |
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