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Calgary Flames eying long-term extension for Elias Lindholm |
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Elias Lindholm was among the five Calgary Flames to file for arbitration in advance of Thursday's 5 p.m. (ET) deadline.
The goal, obviously, is to come to an agreement on a contract extension before a potential hearing. In particular, a long-term agreement.
Lindholm has registered 89 points in 153 games over the last two seasons, which averages out to be 48 per 82.
He's a right-handed shot, he can play center or wing, he can at least hold his own in any situation, and at 23 there is still some room for growth. He's a pretty good player.
I do think a long-term contract makes sense – especially if Lindholm could end up spending a good chunk of time on the top line next season, which would inflate his totals and make his next contract more costly – but the Flames will have to be somewhat careful here.
Over the last two seasons Lindholm has produced at the rate of a fringe 2nd liner during 5v5 play (he ranked 171st in points per 60 and there are 186 top-6 forwards).
He also hasn't proven to be a play driver, although he's far from an anchor.
Again, there is still room for *some* growth but he turns 24 in December. It's fair to assume he's reasonably close to reaching his ceiling.
The Flames need to keep that in mind during negotations. If they pay Lindholm like they're expecting another massive step forward, they may be disappointed.
Anything more than ~$4.5 million annually would be a little uncomfortable for me.
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