Six-time 20-goal scorer reveals why he's still a UFA, says a deal is coming soon
We are just a little over a month away from NHL training camps opening, which is beginning to put some pressure on the remaining UFAs who have yet to ink a deal with an NHL team. For some, deals will get worked out in the coming weeks. For others, they'll have to rely on either PTO's leading to contract offers or an injury forcing a team's hand.
For Tomas Tatar, the problem isn't the talent, but rather the term. The player confirmed this week that he has held firm to the idea of getting a multi-year deal. Those types of deals simply aren't there right now, unfortunately.
"I wanted at least two years again. Even if something didn't work out the first year, it could then start to get better in the second year, just like it did with the Devils."
The important thing here is that Tatar and his agent have come to terms with the fact that 2-year deals are likely off the table entirely at this point. Because of this, Tatar is now willing to sign a 1-year deal, which bodes well for him finding a contract in the coming weeks.
"That's why I'm trying to be very careful and today it's headed for a one-year contract because of the salary cap space. The last two days things have really moved after standing still for a while. I've been communicating directly with the coaches of the teams I could go to, what my role would be on the team. But I don't want to make any promises on when that will be finally resolved.
The salary cap situation isn't easy, I'm sorry I'm the one who got the ax. I won't moan about it though. I may have to wait longer for some teams because of the changes they will have to make to make room for me. But I'm already pushing for it to be as soon as possible."
The salary cap situation isn't easy, I'm sorry I'm the one who got the ax. I won't moan about it though. I may have to wait longer for some teams because of the changes they will have to make to make room for me. But I'm already pushing for it to be as soon as possible."
Tatar had a rough 2021-22, but did much better with the Devils in 2022-23, scoring 20 goals and 48 points. The 32-year-old has scored 20+ goals in a season six times in his career. It's tough becoming acclimated to new teammates and new systems, which is why Tatar was pushing for a multi-year contract. However, even on a 1-year deal, he could be a real asset if he can adjust and adapt quickly.
Source: Sport.Aktuality.Sk
| POLL | ||
How much to you think Tatar gets a one-year deal? | ||
| $1 to $2 million | 34 | 39.5 % |
| $2 to $3 million | 37 | 43 % |
| $3 to $4 million | 9 | 10.5 % |
| $4 million+ | 6 | 7 % |
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