Looking back at some of the best contracts out there make one wonder just how much these players left on the table. Some deals work and some do not. Long term value exists on some that few could have foreseen.
Today, the spotlight focuses on the center position and we start off with a value that has hit astronomically.
The Best Long-Term Value Centers
Nathan MacKinnon — Colorado Avalanche
MacKinnon presents as a special player who still has even more upside. The scary thing is that the center already could top 100 points at the age 23. This 2013 draft pick combines speed with a shot that has only improved in the last five seasons.
The forward signed a seven-year, $44.1 million contract two years ago – a $6.3 million AAV. This came after a 52 point campaign. He followed that up with 53 points, then came last year’s 97 point breakout. Basically, MacKinnon is under contract until he just turns 28. Colorado enjoying his prime years with this kind of discount is massive for their salary cap — especially when they have to sign Mikko Rantanen.
Estimating his worth is tough but think what a first line center could be worth given his production. That dollar number could easily be in the $10.5 million plus range AAV. No one would bat an eye there.
Let’s add a few more numbers to the mix. He has 20 power play points already. He scored 32 all of last year. On-ice shooting percentage at even strength remains right around 12% which is elite. Furthermore, his possession metrics are 4% above team average. MacKinnon leads the league in shots averaging just over 4.5 per night. Earlier in his career, high volume seemed like an OHL pipe dream. Now, it has become reality. The league sees the best forward and it may just be MacKinnon err the most valuable to his team.
Dylan Larkin — Detroit Red Wings
Now, the debate heightens a bit. Larkin taking some lumps has been well documented. This season, the center took his game up a notch. He already has come close to his career high in goals (23). Currently, Larkin has 17. This includes three game-winning goals and 39 points in 41 games.
The forward signed a five-year, $30.5 million deal before this season. Last year started the jump as Larkin got past the 60 point barrier. He is on pace to attempt more shots on net, and his scoring chances at a career-high pace. Larkin is accomplishing this on a team that is rebuilding with few surrounding pieces in place. He plays almost 22 minutes a night and has possession metrics over 10% above team relative.
Larkin represents Detroit’s future and that is something the Red Wings will try to complement in future seasons. The Red Wings believe they have an 80+ point player in their midst for years to come. It is part of why the $6.1 million AAV is such a bargain for this 22-year-old. His next contract cost will go a good bit upward.
Aleksander Barkov — Florida Panthers
Barkov signed a six-year, $5.9 million AAV deal just a few seasons ago. It is hard to believe the center is a captain and just 23 years old. Yet, the Panthers forward is a defensive and possession stalwart normally.
Magically, the offense blossomed last year. The center jumped up from point totals in the 50’s up to 78 points. So far, his deal is looking like a total bargain. This is only year three of the deal but the nice part is there is still growth expected.
Barkov’s PDO is at an unsustainable 97.4, but it should creep up. Keep in mind, the center is victimized by some awful even strength goaltending (88.1% on-ice save percentage is an abomination). On the bright side, the Florida pivot is on his way to his first potential 30 goal season and 80 points. Numbers trending upward for the rest of this contract are likely.
Best NHL Contracts: Bang For The Buck – RFA Best Values For Centers