Quoting: palhal
I agree but his "pre negotiated" contract makes it a really tough trade during this season. Few teams have the cap for him next season without disturbing their lineup (moving a high priced player). A contender doesn't want that presence in the locker room, though Wings, Sabres and Devils have the cap next season.
I just wonder what the Devils would want to give up this season to secure a 8 year X 8.75m contract for example. Or do the Devils take their chances in free agency and get a 8.75m player for free.
My guess on Fitzgerald's thinking:
1. Probably in no rush to make such a big move before deadline. His public comments suggest he believes team-building should be done in off-season.
2. His priority will be to first lock down Jesper Bratt
3. He will have the ammo (cap space, picks, prospects) to be aggressive in off-season.
4. He has 'types' of players he wants: big interior forward who can score in close, or has he says, "heavy skill"...and long, mobile dmen with puck skills. Meier checks the former box (and has personal connection and chemistry with Hischier). So Fitzy very likely will do what it takes if he sees a good fit. He went all-in on Hamilton a couple years ago and again on Tkachuk last summer. Despite being a fairly conservative GM, when he wants a player, he can be aggressive. Contrast that with the Gaudreau pursuit, which was, at best, half-hearted. He called Johnny and made offer that day just as free agency opened up (probably to raise the price since Philly and NYI were rumored to be making offers). As the day moved along, as it became clear that NJD was likely Gaudreau's first choice, Fitzy ghosted him. Gaudreau even brought it up himself on Spittin Chicklets, said he waited all afternoon for NJ to call him back. Then once CBJ moved in, he had to make a decision.
I wouldn't be surprised if Meier was the guy he has been saving his ammo to acquire. If its $8.25m or $8.75m, I don't think it will make much of a difference, especially since there will not likely be a UFA on market that is worth $8.75m (Pastrnak probably re-ups in Boston).