Could Patrik Laine be another offer sheet candidate?
David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period: With Sebastian Aho signing an offer sheet, the gates have been released. There are reports too that Brayden Point turned down a sheet from Montreal. Therefore, it makes sense that Patrik Laine could accept one in the future if negotiations with Winnipeg go astray.
This expected to happen because of the environment. The cap inched up to $81.5 million and not $83 or more million like expected. Also, the period leading up to free agency saw salaries escalate more than projected. Now, teams are more willing to up the ante and go offer sheet. Winnipeg may have $22.872 million in cap space but with Kyle Connor and several RFA’s to sign, that money will dry up fast.
Winnipeg’s mixed up defense…what can be done?
Murat Ates of The Athletic: Winnipeg stayed out of the mess that was day one of free agency but they need defensemen. Nathan Beaulieu stayed put with a one year, $1 million deal. Anthony Bitetto signed as well but he may be destined for the minors. Health became an issue last season with injuries to Winnipeg’s core defense. So, what’s left out there to help Winnipeg?
Niklas Kronwall is one option but consider that the blueliner thinks he has one year left and is 38. If he signs anywhere, it may just be Detroit again.
Jake Gardiner still is unsigned. His salary projection is around $6.8 million at this juncture though. However, he is the top-four defenseman Winnipeg needs. Do they overpay to get something so vital?
Ben Hutton is affordable but his usage screams bottom-pairing defenseman who cannot address Winnipeg’s needs. If he came in around $2 million, that is nice, but this accomplishes little else.
Derek Engelland could be a player to look at for his ability to kill penalties but it would have to be a cheaper, one year deal. Joe Morrow tilts the offense a bit positive and could be even cheaper.
Oh, the latest on Thomas Vanek…
David Pagnotta: Again, it is another offseason and Thomas Vanek is searching for a job. Yet, despite his age, there are multiple teams intrigued with the forward. This is because the winger can provide streaks of offense. Nothing is imminent but do not be surprised, come September or sooner, Vanek is back in the NHL.