NHL Rumors: Jordan Binnington’s next deal with Blues, Blackhawks refute Damir Zhafyarov report, Rangers and Kings prepared to go all out for Jack Eichel
Anthony Scultore
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The Blackhawks are refuting a rumor that surfaced yesterday. Per The Athletic, “the Blackhawks had not offered a contract to KHL forward Damir Zhafyarov.”
NHL Rumors: Blackhawks didn’t offer Zhafyarov a deal
Even though multiple teams have expressed interest his size and speed are a concern.
“Smallish, high-skilled winger who’s a playmaker,” a KHL league source described Zhafyarov. “His size is his greatest weakness. And I can’t say he’s speedy enough to be an NHL player with that size. He’s mobile, sees the ice really well, has a great hockey IQ and great work ethic as well. But it’s not enough to make the NHL with that size.”
The Athletic
While that may be the case, I am sure someone will take a flyer on a 26 year-old who has notched 58 points in 54 games.
NHL Rumors: Jordan Binnington looking to cash in
The only Stanley Cup winning goalie in Blues franchise history is ready to start earning the big bucks. His two year deal is going to expire and he’s looking at a new one in the $5.5 to $7 million range.
Industry sources say the AAV on Binnington’s next contract could be between $5.5 and $6.5 million and the term could be between five and seven years.
The Athletic
This should be an easy one for the Blues to get done. Expect an easy negotiation for their star goalie.
NHL Rumors: Rangers and Kings ready to go hard after Jack Eichel
Elliotte Friedman went on WGR550 Radio and was asked about the future of Jack Eichel. Friedman presented his thoughts that Eichel may eventually want out of Buffalo based on how frustrated he was before this season started.
Things have not faired much better for the Sabres this year with Taylor Hall even talking about his struggles. Should Buffalo be ready to move him, Friedman believes the Kings and Rangers have what it takes to land him.
Over at Forever Blueshirts, I go in-depth on what the Rangers could be planning this upcoming offseason.