The Jeff Skinner contract fallout…
Jared Clinton of The Hockey News: As Jeff Skinner counts his new millions, there are several prospective free agents that will cash in as well. One of them is Artemi Panarin, who could earn anywhere from $10-$12 million AAV when all is said and done. Florida offering fewer dollars would not surprise because of tax laws and such. On the other hand, the Skinner deal made some players see dollar signs.
Those include Anders Lee, Kevin Hayes, Jordan Eberle, and especially Matt Duchene. Duchene benefits the most because he thrived in Columbus before and during the playoffs. The center looked at around a $7-7.5 million AAV and now can add about a million dollars. Now, the same can be said for Lee, Hayes, and Eberle as well. Needless to say, prices went up once Buffalo and Jeff Skinner set the market.
Wayne Simmonds and Tyler Myers among UFA’s to be leery of
Andrew Berkshire of Sportsnet: Several free agents expect to be overpaid this summer as the general managers open their wallets. Two of the more prominent ones include Wayne Simmonds and Tyler Myers.
Wayne Simmonds — The problem with Simmonds lies in two factors — age and injury risk. There is no questioning how tough Wayne Simmonds is. On the other hand, playing through several injuries last year cost him millions. Furthermore, the right winger is 30-years old coming off injury and poor numbers. How much can he recover and how does that translate points wise? It’s an excellent question with a murky answer at best.
Tyler Myers — Myers plays how he plays. There is nothing great or elite but he produces occasionally well enough. He dangles the carrot so to speak then throws a bunch of lemons out after. Unfortunately, that means teams will pay for the defenseman despite the well-known risks. He struggled in the 4/5 slot for Winnipeg more often than not. Imagine what he would do on a worse team and cringe.
Mike Smith — Quickly, Smith played phenomenally during the playoffs and that will entice some teams. The problem becomes age and ability to start. Smith lacks in both regards. Someone will overpay and expect more out of the goaltender. Be afraid.