There's little risk here for him. ....
There is risk everywhere. Hockey is a violent sport. We hear many people saying that 8th year is huge and a big advantage for UFAs.
A young guy choosing a one year over a 2, is a risk. It's minimal, but its a risk nonetheless. Yeah he got some top line time, but was otherwise an 11/12.
I have a sneaking suspicion our team is no longer afraid to use young players, and expect him to be pushed a bit. Axel, Stormy, Shane, Stephenson... at least he is a right shot which separates him from basically all our future B6s looking for jobs. We may scratch him to get young guy games / save him for the loffs. Lets see if he gets 75 games again.
Any player that plays well is in good shape for their next contract.