Bomber0104
Registered User
Yeah, but "reasonable" to you and reality are two different things, which of course you know perfectly well as you're setting yourself up to complain when Kessel does get signed.
I've explained many times already that I am a Leafs fan, not a Kessel fan. I don't mind Kessel, I think he's really good at what he does. But at the same time I am aware of what he doesn't do, and I believe both should be factored into making a valuation on his services. I admit I am entirely biased, because I'd rather see the Leafs prosper than the estate of Phil Kessel, so forgive me.
You're not getting one of the elite wingers in the game at age 25 signed for 6.5 million. It's not going to happen. If it did it would be the best contract this team has signed in a long long time but I doubt Phil is going to leave that kind of cash on the table.
It will cost between 7 and 8. If his 13/14 is anything like the previous two seasons, or better if the Leafs can upgrade on his centre, expect it closer to 8.
For a long-term deal I do believe Kessel can be had with a $6.5 million cap hit. Is that optimistic? I'm not so sure. We're talking an 8 year deal. A lot can happen in 8 years. Kessel makes his bacon off his speed, shot, and hands. Remove any of those from his game and he's not going to survive in this league unless he develops some sort of work ethic and round out his game. So at 6.5 x 8, that is 52 million.
A higher cap hit could be accommodated but I would expect the Leafs would respond by decreasing their long-term exposure to that cap hit by lowering the term of the contract. $7.5 x 6 ?
I'd like to hear what would be a better use of the money, if you don't think Kessel is worth it. Two lesser players that add up to the same dough? Like who?
I'm trying to call up Ray Shero right now...but I can't get past his secretary. I'll try and find out who is available around the league but it could take a while.