Eastern Conference Team Places 30-Goal Scorer on the Market for Free

PUBLICATION

Aaron
June 19, 2023 (8:38 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

There's ongoing speculation about which players may find themselves subject to contract buyouts, as the first NHL summer buyout window advances.

For clubs saddled with undesirable contracts, the buyout strategy is often seen as a useful tool. Nevertheless, the common first step involves attempting to negotiate a trade for the player before resorting to a buyout.

Attempts to Salvage Something for Nothing

Frank Seravalli, from Daily Faceoff, has been discussing potential candidates for buyouts and the existing rumors related to their respective teams. He has pointed out the fervent activity on the trade market, with teams aiming to find a willing trade partner. The logic behind these moves is straightforward: it's better to get nothing in return for an asset than losing cap space for no gain.

Although many players facing buyout are typically those with exorbitant salaries or aging ones, it's not uncommon to find players of considerable value, whose contracts are simply unfavorable.

A Bargain Deal for Hoffman?

Seravalli's report includes intriguing information about the Montreal Canadiens. Allegedly, they're offering forward Mike Hoffman's services to other teams for virtually nothing, aiming to clear him off their payroll and avoid a buyout. Despite Hoffman's inconsistent performances over the past two seasons, it's worth remembering that his top-tier performances aren't that far in the past. He remains an able scorer.

In his prime, Hoffman was a consistent 30-goal scorer, even hitting a career peak with a 70-point season only four years ago. His career has seen its share of ups and downs, partly due to some personal issues involving Hoffman and his girlfriend. Regardless, he has demonstrated his scoring prowess time and time again.

If the Canadiens are genuinely willing to hand over Hoffman's services for next to nothing, it's a golden opportunity that other teams should seize. His contract has just one more year to go, implying minimal risk in acquiring him. Plus, the new team could then trade him at the upcoming season's deadline, retaining only half of his contract.

As Read on Markerzone - Team Reportedly Puts 30-Goal Scorer on the Market for Free