NHL News: Islanders sign Ryan Pulock, Red Wings sign Anthony Mantha, and more injury news
Anthony Scultore
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The signings of RFA’s continues with the fate of others hanging in the balance today as well. Things have been relatively quiet in the NHL lately but but should pickup after all the arbitration hearing pass. Starting later tomorrow, expect to see UFA’s like Mike Hoffman coming off the board.
NHL News: Islanders sign Ryan Pulock for two years
The cap strapped Islanders locked up one of their two RFA’s yesterday in 26 year-old Ryan Pulock. He scored 35 points in 68 games and that was good enough to get him a two year deal with an AAV of $5 million.
Now the Islanders only $3.9 million in space and Mat Barzal waiting in the wings. Islanders fans are now holding their breath to see what moves are made to sign Barzal long term.
NHL News: Red Wings sign Anthony Mantha for four years
Anthony Mantha was locked up for four years by Steve Yzerman and the Red Wings. The 26 year-old scored 38 points in 43 games and is considered one of their best players. The deal comes with an AAV of $5.7 million.
“The process was a long process, but my agent (Pat Brisson) was telling me that things were going the right way,” Mantha said. “So, I kind of needed to trust him at that time. Even us not filing for arbitration, again, it was my agent’s call. He said things were going in the right direction. [My agent said,] ‘I need you to trust me, trust Stevie. He’s a man of his word so we’ll get it done.'”
Gustuv Nyquist out 5-6 months
The Blue Jackets were dealt a blow yesterday with the news they lost Gustav Nyquist for the start of next season. He had surgery to repair a torn labrum in his shoulder on Tuesday and will mist close to 6 months.
“This was a chronic issue that Gus has been dealing with for a number of seasons,” Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen said. “He has been able to perform at a high level, but a cyst in the area developed over time that has inhibited his ability to continue to do so. As a result, surgery was the best course of action and we look forward to having him back at full strength this season.”
Does this injury to an offensive player make Columbus push harder for a UFA? Mike Hoffman and Mikael Granlund could help here.