We’re into the month of September and training camp will be upon us soon. However, there some restricted free agents that need to be signed. Teams would love to get these players under contract before missing any ice time. Players have until Dec. 1 to sign to be eligible for the Stanley Cup Playoffs. One player that’s an RFA is Ottawa Senators forward Alex Formenton. Today’s NHL rumours look at what an Alex Formenton deal may look like.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Alex Formenton Contract Still Unsigned
NHL Insider Chris Johnston went over a list of RFAs that have yet to be signed for NorthStar Bet. Johnston went over the options awaiting these players like Jason Robertson, Rasmus Sandin and Formenton. Los Angeles Kings defenceman Mikey Anderson was on the list, but signed a new contract on Saturday.
New, for @NorthStarBet: In the wake of Kirby Dach's new contract with Montréal, a look at the remaining unsigned restricted free agents with NHL training camps drawing closer.https://t.co/ITapdAmpZJ
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) September 7, 2022
Johnston speculated that Ottawa will probably have to sign the Barrie, Ontario native to a shorter-term deal. The soon-to-be 23-year-old scored 18 goals in his first sustained time for the Senators. He made $747,000 in his last contract and will likely earn a small raise. He would become arbitration eligible at the end of next season.
What it Means
Ottawa general manager Pierre Dorion has been proactive in locking down his younger players. Tim Stutzle recently inked an eight-year contract with the club as did Joshua Norris. The Senators want to keep their core together and could be poised for a breakthrough in the next couple of season.
Dorion would love to give another deal that keeps the depth winger in the fold. However, the two sides may have to settle for a short-term agreement. Formenton’s contract would eat away at the over $7 million left on the Senators’ salary cap. He is the last restricted free agent left to sign with the club.
The plan of locking down as many younger players as one can has been solid for Dorion. However, it’s not possible for everyone and Formenton will probably get a short bridge deal that will hopefully get him a big pay day down the road. The Senators GM did say talks have been positive and a deal should be reached before camp. This is according to Sportsnet’s Luke Fox.
Three Thoughts: Alex Formenton scored his 10th goal of the season in Tuesday’s win over Carolina as Brady Tkachuk and Chris Tierney also found the back of the net #GoSensGo
📝 https://t.co/Cyc0IKw6wg pic.twitter.com/BYySFcf5vt
— Ottawa Senators (@Senators) February 9, 2022
