The offseason is in full swing. Managers are planning for the upcoming draft and the free agency frenzy as followed. However, contract extensions are another decision to make. One team has so far, but two more players could be looking at signing extensions sooner than later.
NHL Rumours
New Jersey Devils
Rumour: Tom Fitzgerald spoke To Meier About a long-term deal
Tom Fitzgerald reveals that he spoke with Timo Meier yesterday, and Meier has expressed wanting to stay here for the next eight years.
Has asked his agent to negotiate an eight-year deal to stay with #NJDevils
— Amanda Stein (@amandacstein) June 16, 2023
One contract down and one more to go. Jesper Bratt and the New Jersey Devils locked down a long-term deal. He now joins Nico Hischier and Jack Hughes for the long haul. Now the attention shifts to the prized acquisition from the deadline. Timo Meier has been taken to arbitration. Do not panic, that is a good thing. Fitzgerald and Meier continue to discuss a contract extension. Meier has expressed his desire to stay in New Jersey for the long haul. The feeling is mutual and it is so important for the Devils to get it done.
Meier is the perfect fit for the Devils. He is your prototypical power forward with great scoring ability. One element missing from the team was physicality and that is something Meier brings. Meier had a strong showing for the Devils and was one of the most impactful players on the roster. In terms of the overall outlook, keeping Meier in the fold strengthens New Jersey for a long time. The window cracked open and if they can add him to the mix long-term, it becomes wide open.
Toronto Maple Leafs
Rumour: Elliote Friedman discusses an eight-year deal for Auston Matthews
Elliotte Friedman says the Leafs are pushing for an 8 year deal with Auston Matthews. Mentions both sides are aware a deal needs to happen sooner rather than later. Believes he is staying. https://t.co/GCudLrAOoM
— Jen (@tavmarnythews) June 16, 2023
This next one on the NHL Rumours is a big one. The wheels are churning on this contract. With his no-movement clause that kicks in on July 1, a deal needs to get done sooner than later. With a new general manager in place, he will be looking to make his stamp on the club. His first order of business will be to lock up Auston Matthews long-term. In regards to the core four, Matthews is not the guy that will be hitting the road. Matthews has expressed his desire to stay in Toronto.
Toronto finally got over the hump in the first round, but there is work to be done. Matthews will help spearhead the attack that can help take the Leafs to the promised land. Matthews is an elite centre and a pure goal scorer. This season he finished with 40 goals and 45 assists. Not to mention he won the MVP award last season. This extension is important to the team and the player.
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