Wanna blog? Start your own hockey blog with My HockeyBuzz. Register for free today!
 

Projecting Pavel Zacha's next contract with the New Jersey Devils

July 20, 2019, 9:55 AM ET [21 Comments]
Todd Cordell
New Jersey Devils Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT
Follow me on Twitter @ToddCordell

Earlier this off-season I took a closer look at EvolvingWild's contract projections as pertaining to the New Jersey Devils.

They had Pavel Zacha penciled in for a two-year deal worth $2.06 million per season. I opined that was fair for someone who, despite his faults, scored at a 17-goal pace last season and provided high-end play on the penalty kill.

As more time passes, and we see what comparable players are asking for and receiving, I've become more confident Zacha's contract will look eerily similar to the projection. And it should.

Take Brock McGinn and Andrew Copp, for example.

McGinn put up 26 points and skated a regular shift on the PK for the Carolina Hurricanes. His ask in arbitration is for $2.7 million while the Hurricanes are coming in at $1.75 million, according to Elliotte Friedman.

Copp registered 25 points (in 69 games) and skated a regular shift on the PK for the Winnipeg Jets. His ask in arbitration is for $2.9 million. The team ask is $1.5 million, per Friedman.

Quick math suggests McGinn will get $2.25 million, and Copp will come in at $2.2M, if each party meets in the middle. Update: McGinn and the Hurricanes (mostly) met in the middle.



On the surface $2.06 million might seem a tad low considering Zacha averaged more points per game than either player. It doesn't when comparing 5v5 efficiency in terms of generating points, shots, and scoring chances.



Considering McGinn and Copp also have arbitration rights, while Zacha does not, it makes sense for them to cost a little more.

When all is said and done I'd be surprised if Zacha doesn't sign a short-term bridge deal for ~2 million per season.

numbers via naturalstattrick.com

Recent Posts

Wayne Simmonds' poor 2018-19 campaign was not a one-off

Devils sign Connor Carrick to two-year extension

Which Metro team's had the worst off-season?

Which Metro team's had the best off-season?

Devils sign Jack Hughes to ELC

Let's talk about Taylor Hall

The Devils should extend Nico Hischier sooner than later

Reviewing the Devils' 2019 draft class
Join the Discussion: » 21 Comments » Post New Comment
More from Todd Cordell
» Thank you
» On the Chayka rumors and finalists for the Devils' GM job
» Notes on quotes from Lindy Ruff's appearance on 31 Thoughts
» The New Jersey Devils may not have hired the coach they wanted
» Notes on quotes from Ruff, Fitzgerald, and Devils ownership