Oliver Kapanen's next contract could hit $5-7M per year, says Pierre McGuire
Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
One of the revelations of the season for the Montreal Canadiens is undoubtedly center Oliver Kapanen.
On Tony Marinaro's podcast, Pierre McGuire put forward a number that makes people raise their eyebrows when it comes to Kapanen's next contract.
He sees Kapanen earning between 5 and 7M per year on his next deal.
The timing is perfect to fuel the debate.
Kapanen has been at the heart of the Montreal Canadiens for weeks now.
He is producing, he is playing big minutes, and his statistics provide a solid foundation to start talking about money.
A 5 to 7 million per year contract for Oliver Kapanen?
"Oliver Kapanen: between $5 and $7 million per year on his next contract, believes Pierre McGuire"
Over six years, that would amount to a deal worth roughly 40 million in total.
On the stat sheet, it's simple.
This season, Kapanen is producing at a strong pace, and that draws attention for a player in his first real year with the club.
He doesn't need to do more for his agent to start taking notes.
His profile is also clear.
He is listed at 6-foot-2 and 194 pounds.
The Canadiens drafted him in 2021, 64th overall.
Where McGuire applies pressure is on the risk of paying too quickly.
A 5 or 7M contract is a strong signal, even with the salary cap going up.
It means the organization views him as a major piece, not just a supporting player.
The Canadiens, for their part, are not obligated to rush.
They can wait, see if the production holds up over a longer period, and then negotiate with more information.
Over the next few years, the lineup will change, and the role at center will not always be the same depending on returns and additions.
What is certain is that Kapanen has just entered the zone where every point is worth more.
In Montreal, a good stretch can earn you respect.
But it can also cost you millions.
I'm really looking forward to seeing how this hot situation plays out.
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| POLL | ||
JANVIER 17 | 1416 ANSWERS Oliver Kapanen's next contract could hit $5-7M per year, says Pierre McGuire Does Oliver Kapanen already deserve 5-7M? | ||
| Yes | 527 | 37.2 % |
| No | 349 | 24.6 % |
| Too early | 540 | 38.1 % |
| List of polls | ||