Why Aleksander Barkov's long-term deal makes sense for Panthers
The Florida Panthers’ decision to sign Aleksander Barkov to a six-year contract extension worth $35.4 million, according to reports, is a reminder that team circumstances influence contract negotiations as much as player performance.
Some will question this deal, averaging $5.9 million per season, because Barkov didn’t have any leverage. He will finish his entry-level contract this season and was set to become a restricted free agent. Some executives believe that “bridge deals” should be the first choice for players in this situation.
But here is why this deal makes sense for the Panthers.
*** Cornerstone piece. The Panthers believe Barkov is a foundation-block player and they want him to have an allegiance to the franchise. The Columbus Blue Jackets had troublesome contract negotiations with Ryan Johansen after his entry-level contract, then the two sides agreed to a bridge deal and they never seemed to make peace. Their relationship ended with a trade. As soon as the Colorado Avalanche started having contract squabbles with center Ryan O’Reilly, it seemed as if he was destined to be traded.
*** Delaying UFA status. Barkov will be a Panther for nine seasons before he becomes an unrestricted free agent for his age-27 season. Delaying his free agency by two years is significant.
*** Barkov is on the rise. While it seems as if the Panthers are paying for potential, Barkov is improving. He had eight goals his first season, 16 in his second and he should be over 20 this season. His even-strength production has increased in each season, to 2.0 points per 60 minutes in 2015-16.
*** Building for the long-term. This signing sends a message to the fan base that the Panthers have built a competitive team, and their plan is tie up their essential players. You can bet they will be trying to sign Aaron Ekblad long-term next season.
Maybe other teams would have offered Barkov a bridge deal. But this is a Panthers team that has only made the playoffs twice since 1998. They can’t play it safe. They are still trying to win over fans. They need to show them that this will be talented team for many years to come.