McKenzie on RFAs and Marner
Bob McKenzie: Believe that the majority of the main unsigned restricted free agents will still be unsigned come the start of September.
Bob McKenzie: “As for Marner, my view from afar is that it’s probably close to or at the point where TOR hopes an offer sheet is tendered. That would allow/force closure, one way or the other. Match the offer sheet or take the compensation, but it would be done.
Because, unless I’m reading this wrong, there exists a fundamental difference in the perception of value/term between the two sides and it’s going to make getting a negotiated settlement very difficult. ”
A Hall decision likely isn’t coming anytime soon
Sportsnet: There is still no rush for the New Jersey Devils and Taylor Hall to get an extension done. It will likely drag into next season for Hall to decide if he wants to stay in New Jersey long-term.
“You want to play on the best team possible, and I’ve played nine seasons in the NHL and only won one playoff game,” Hall said. “You want to be on a team that’s not only a playoff contender but a Stanley Cup contender every year because I only have so many more years left in this league and so many more chances to win a Stanley Cup. It hasn’t even come close yet. I kind of want to make up for lost time, but at the same time want to be smart with everything that’s going on.”
The Devils drafted Jack Hughes first overall, traded for defenseman P.K. Subban, and signed Wayne Simmonds to a one-year deal.
Any extension for Hall will likely be $10 million-plus. There haven’t been any in-depth contract negotiations yet.
“It’s a big decision for Taylor,” Shero said. “It’s a big decision for the team here. Both sides need the information to have a real fruitful dialogue that’s meaningful, and that’s been the relationship we’ve had with Taylor since Day One, so that hasn’t changed.”