Buffalo Sabres Secure Josh Doan’s Future: A Sign of Things to Come in NHL Contract Trends?
The Buffalo Sabres made a significant statement this week, signing forward Josh Doan to a seven-year, $48.65 million contract extension. This deal, carrying an average annual value (AAV) of $6.95 million, isn’t just about retaining a promising young player; it reflects evolving strategies in NHL contract negotiations and team building. Doan, acquired from the Arizona Coyotes, has quickly become a key contributor, setting career highs in goals, assists, and points this season.
The Rising Value of Bridge-to-Long-Term Deals
Traditionally, players like Doan – entering restricted free agency after their entry-level contract – would often receive a “bridge” deal, a shorter-term contract to prove their worth before a larger, longer-term commitment. While bridge deals still exist, we’re seeing a trend towards teams proactively securing young talent with longer-term contracts, even before they hit unrestricted free agency. This is driven by several factors.
Firstly, the escalating NHL salary cap. Teams are increasingly aware of the need to lock in players they believe will be core contributors before their value skyrockets. Waiting could mean a significantly higher price tag in just a couple of seasons. Secondly, the desire for roster stability. A core group of players signed long-term provides a foundation for consistent performance and team chemistry. Consider the Tampa Bay Lightning’s core of Kucherov, Stamkos, and Hedman – their long-term contracts were instrumental in their sustained success.
Pro Tip: For fantasy hockey players, keep a close eye on players like Doan who receive these types of extensions. It often signals increased responsibility and opportunity within the team, potentially leading to higher point totals.
The Impact of Player Acquisition on Contract Negotiations
Doan’s situation is particularly interesting because he was acquired via trade. Teams are now factoring in the cost of acquiring a player – draft picks, prospects, and salary cap implications – when determining contract value. Buffalo didn’t just have to pay for Doan’s on-ice performance; they also had to account for the assets they gave up to get him. This adds another layer of complexity to negotiations.
We’ve seen similar dynamics play out with players like Timo Meier (traded from San Jose to New Jersey) and Erik Karlsson (traded from San Jose to Pittsburgh). The acquiring teams often extend these players quickly to justify the trade and demonstrate commitment.
Buffalo’s Playoff Push and the Contract’s Significance
The Sabres’ current position – fourth in the Atlantic Division and vying for a playoff spot – further underscores the importance of this signing. After a decade-long playoff drought, Buffalo is building a competitive team, and Doan is seen as a vital part of that future. Securing him now sends a message to the fanbase and the league that the Sabres are serious about contending.
The Sabres’ general manager, Jarmo Kekalainen, highlighted Doan’s impact both on and off the ice, emphasizing his work ethic and potential for growth. This holistic view of a player’s value – beyond just statistics – is becoming increasingly common in NHL front offices.
The Broader NHL Trend: Investing in Youth
The Doan extension is part of a larger trend across the NHL: investing in young, skilled players. Teams are prioritizing drafting and developing talent, and then rewarding those players with long-term contracts. This is a departure from the past, where veteran free agents often commanded the biggest contracts.
Data from CapFriendly (https://www.capfriendly.com/) shows a consistent increase in the percentage of team salary allocated to players aged 25 and under over the past decade. This demonstrates a clear shift in strategy.
Did you know? The average age of NHL players has been steadily decreasing in recent years, reflecting the league’s emphasis on speed, skill, and youth.
FAQ
Q: What is an AAV in an NHL contract?
A: AAV stands for Average Annual Value. It’s the total value of the contract divided by the number of years, representing the amount charged against the salary cap each season.
Q: What is restricted free agency?
A: Restricted free agency allows a team to match any offer sheet another team makes to their player, giving them the right to retain the player.
Q: Why are long-term contracts becoming more common?
A: Rising salary caps, the desire for roster stability, and the increasing value of young talent are driving the trend towards longer-term contracts.
Further Reading
For more insights into NHL contract analysis, check out The Athletic’s NHL coverage. You can also find detailed salary cap information on CapFriendly.
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