Quoting: jordok92
1000% Trotz helped, as 99% of new coaches do when they come in. I'm just saying temper your expectations, every team is susceptible to a 10-15 point variance based on loser points, one goal games, fluke goals for/against and the numbers suggest NYI was on the high end of their spectrum. Unless you're Tampa sure you're making the playoffs every year why are you giving up 4 first round picks?
But sure I understand why the Marner camp is (allegedly) asking for Matthews money, even though the even strength production, goals and position would argue he shouldn't be asking for it. Even if the Barzal camp wouldn't be asking for a Marner comparable, overpaying him x amount shoots up Barzal's price by x amount. Marner making 12.5 means a 70 points Barzal deserves what, 11? But Marner making 10.5 means a 70 point Barzal deserves 9.5, 10? Obviously those numbers aren't exact, just trying to relay my point.
Nah, I have high expectations for this team next year. They played great last year under the new system and the team really gelled last year after JT left. I was one of the few people who said the Isles were going to be a better team without JT, while everyone else was predicting they were going to be fighting for the #1 overall pick... so I stand by my prediction that this team will be just as good, maybe a few point drop off but I'm still predicting 95+ points for them next year... if I'm wrong I'll eat my words, but I'm standing by it.
My god, this is like beating my head against the wall... so I'll try this one more time... Marner isn't allegedly asking for Matthews money, it's been widely reported he is using Matthews as his comparable for contract negotiations. Also, the reason he is using Matthews, while TOR is trying to use lesser players as comparables is because Marner HAS LED THE LEAFS IN POINTS FOR THE LAST 3 SEAONS! More than Matthews, more than Tavares, more than anyone else wearing a Leafs Jersey. PLUS, Marner plays all roles... 5-on-5, PP, PK also more than Matthews and Tavares. Not to mention he has progressed upwards in points each of the last 3 seasons all while staying healthy, something Matthews hasn't been able to do.
So, one more time, IF Barzal has a breakout season and scores 90+ points he can certainly use Marner as a comp and I wouldn't even be mad at him for doing so. But 70+ Barzal comes in at around 8-10m, regardless of what Marner gets. Marners leverage here is that he has out performed the guys he is using as comps, Barzal would need to do the same to have the same leverage... it's simple logic.