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Will These Top Players Start Next Season Elsewhere?

October 17, 2017, 12:46 PM ET [36 Comments]
Eklund
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It's early for sure, but around here it is never too early to look at whose contract is expiring and who may be available to sign as a UFA come July 1, 2018. I check in on this about once a month or so in the fall because even though July is far off, these players can be extended at this point by their teams...The fact they aren't yet signed tells us something and could possibly mean these guys are available for a trade sooner than later...These are the kinds of players you simply CAN'T lose for nothing...


#1 John Tavares

Much has been written on JT, but at this point his future feels more and more obscured by clouds...He wants to play his entire career for the Islanders. Many people say this, but he really honestly means it. The stadium issue is hanging over this team and many feel that is playing into JT's thinking...I only think that to be true if we are looking at a relocation....which is not likely at all I am constantly being told.
Chances he is an Islanders next year :85%

#2 Cam Atkinson

He is only 28 and led the Jackets in scoring last year. One of the best power play performers in the game. 4 straight 20 plus seasons...including last year with 35 goals. Cam is a huge part of this team moving forward, however he has had run-ins with Tortorella...even getting benched for stretches last year late in the season. Panarin is a big ticket for the Jackets to pay right now....
Chances he is an Blue Jacket next year :70%


#3. James van Riemsdyk

The Leafs could sure use him, but the fact remains some other GIGANTIC contracts are in this team's future. For the right D-man they would move him. Philly may consider bringing him back...I wouldn't be surprised...
Chances he is a Leaf next year :25%

#4. James Neal

James Neal is off to a torrid start and was just awesome for Nashville last year. His value continues to skyrocket. I get the impression the Knights will come to him in January with a strong attempt to keep him, or he will be moved at the deadline....possibly even back to Nashville...
Chances he is an Knight next year :40%

#5. John Carlson

Rounding out our top 5 five potential UFA's is John Carlson of the Washington Capitals. Make no mistake about it..if the Caps weren't going to do everything in their power to keep Carlson they wouldn't have lost some key players this summer. That said, there has been little to no news surrounding an extension at this point, despite both sides knowing what a big ticket Carlson could sign this summer if he isn't wrapped up.
Chances he is an Capital next year :85%

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