On Mika Zibanejad’s initial contract “demand”

Per Larry Brooks, the Rangers and Mika Zibaneajad have engaged in talks to re-sign the center and keep him in New York. Brooks is noting that the initial demand for Zibanejad is a long term contract, around 6-7 years, for $10 million per season. Naturally, that has many balking.

Before people jump ship, remember this is the initial ask in a negotiation. This has a long way to go before Zibanejad is extended, or if he is extended. To commit $10 million over 7 years to a 29 year old is a risky proposition. We are labeling the Barclay Goodrow contract as bad, and this is 250% more for a guy a year older. In reality, this would more likely be a 5-6 year deal in the $8 million to $9 million range. Still expensive, but less sticker shock.

This is likely the most difficult decision that Chris Drury has in his tenure as Ranger GM. It’s something that will define his stay here, for however long it may be. Does he re-sign Zibanejad, one of the league’s purest snipers, and risk that contract? Or does he trade him, perhaps a year or two too early, thus drawing the ire of fans and teammates alike? It is not an easy decision to make.

Zibanejad’s next contract is extremely risky and is in the Dan Girardi/Marc Staal territory. Emotions aside, is it a smart play? Well that all depends on Zibanejad’s contract asks.