The Nashville Predators are entering a crucial phase as they continue their contract negotiations with their star goalie. As the Stanley Cup Final progresses and the 2024 NHL Entry Draft and free agency period draw near, teams are scrambling to make key decisions. The Predators, who exceeded expectations this past season, are particularly focused on securing their goaltending future. This discussion delves into the ongoing contract talks that are critical to the team’s success.
Sources for these NHL rumours are subject to change, reflecting the dynamic nature of these negotiations.
Updates on the situation involving Juuse Saros, the Predators’ standout goalie, have been frequent. Earlier reports indicated that Saros was awaiting the New York Rangers’ contract offer to their goalie, Igor Shesterkin, before making any decisions. However, this speculation caused some frustration within the Predators’ organization.
Despite these reports, optimism remains high for reaching a new contract agreement with Saros. With his current contract set to expire in a year, Saros is eligible to sign an extension starting July 1st. Both parties are reportedly eager to finalize a new deal soon, allowing General Manager Barry Trotz to focus on other team needs during the offseason.
Saros, who will turn 30 at the end of his current contract, is expected to seek a significant raise from his current $5 million salary. His stellar performance was instrumental in the Predators’ surprising playoff run this season, continuing the tradition of strong goaltending established by his predecessor, fellow Finn Pekka Rinne. The goalie market, however, is becoming increasingly competitive, with Shesterkin also poised to become a free agent next summer. The negotiations may hinge on how these two top goalies’ contracts unfold.
Adding complexity to the situation is the presence of Yaroslav Askarov, a highly-touted Russian goalie in the Predators’ system. Askarov had an impressive season with the Milwaukee Admirals in the AHL, helping them reach the Western Conference Final. The Predators have historically been patient with their goalies’ development, as seen with Rinne, and Askarov appears to be following a similar path.
Trotz faces a delicate balancing act: managing Saros’ contract while considering Askarov’s potential as a future starter. The outcome of these negotiations could offer insight into the Predators’ long-term plans for their goaltending. Saros’ situation has even sparked trade rumors in the past, though the team’s strong performance last season has added more complexity rather than clarity.
Overall, the Predators are in a favorable position with their goaltending depth. However, the resolution of Saros’ contract talks will be pivotal in determining the team’s direction in the coming years. As negotiations continue, the Predators aim to maintain their recent success and secure their future in goal.
