The Montreal Canadiens have signed restricted free agent defenseman P.K. Subban to a two year contract worth $5.75 million.
Subban will make a pro-rated $2 million this year, and $3.75 million next season. The deal will carry a very cap friendly number of $2.875 million.
The Canadiens play tomorrow night, and it’s not known if he’ll be in the lineup.
Here is some reaction on the Subban’s deal:
Couple of notes on Subban deal: Canadiens get what they want at two years and cap hit of $2.875. Where Subban gets help is with Year II…
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) January 29, 2013
because the $3.75M figure becomes the baseline for qualifying offer. Or, if he plays really well, arbitration.
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) January 29, 2013
#Habs stood their ground on PK Subban. Bergevin sends message to future UFA’s. Can start talking new deal on July 1 if both sides choose
— Andy Strickland (@andystrickland) January 29, 2013
As a RFA, PK Subban wasn’t entitled to get a no move or no trade. #Canadiens
— Louis Jean (@LouisJean_TVA) January 29, 2013
I believe Subban has a ton more upside in him. His next deal will pay bigger $$ for him. Two years isn’t a long time.
— Pierre LeBrun (@Real_ESPNLeBrun) January 29, 2013
Bottom line here is, Bergevin wants to find out more about Subban before he commits long term to him. Now he gets 2 yrs to see him up close
— Pierre LeBrun (@Real_ESPNLeBrun) January 29, 2013
Other benefit is lower salary is in Year 1, which is pro-rated for 40+ games, and higher salary is in full season (- escrow) for 82 GP.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) January 29, 2013
So MTL gets their number, NHL & GMs likely happy 2nd deals may be reasonable (for now), but we’ll see if things are any better in 2 years.
— Corey Pronman (@coreypronman) January 29, 2013
The #Habs and Subban could be back talking about a contract extension as soon as this summer. Another potential battle looms.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) January 29, 2013
