Oilers and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins Working on New Deal

TSN’s Frank Seravalli writes that the Edmonton Oilers and forward Ryan Nugent-Hopkins are getting a jump on a potential new deal. He says, “Talks continue to progress between Oilers and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins on a long-term extension” but does preface the news saying that a deal is not done and probably not even close. Still, there there have been positive developments in last 24 hours.

Part of the issue during negotiations is the flat cap and how it likely changes the projections for Nugent-Hopkins. In a typical year, with increased revenues and a higher salary cap, this deal might be a lot easier to get done. But, because of the recent developments, that’s not exactly the case in his particular situation.

In a normal year, Nugent-Hopkins might have been looking at an eight-year extension around $8 million per season. Numbers guys have appeared on radio shows and used Matt Duchene in Nashville as a comparable contract when talking about a deal for the center/winger. Unfortunately for Nugent-Hopkins, because of the tight salary cap the new numbers might be between $6.5 and $7. TSN’s Ryan Rishaug says, “My best guess is the sweet spot is in the 7-7.5 range x8”.

As such, it’s understandable why this could take a little time to get done, even if the players goal is to ultimately stay in Edmonton.

Are There a Couple Options on the Table?

Nugent-Hopkins is one year away from really needing to get this done but a number of players are interested in inking deals with their teams now. Like Jeff Petry did in Montreal, having the security in an uncertain NHL has its benefits. Therefore, Nuge locking into an eight-year deal now means not having to worry about things.

But, it also means potentially taking a pay cut. Perhaps his camp is wondering if Nugent-Hopkins is better off doing a three or four-year deal now, then trying to sign another one at the age of 30? At that time, the revenues will have rebounded and contracts will be back to normal if not increasing.

Next: Oilers Working Out Options on Three Potential Trade Targets