Red Wings Face $80 Million Dilemma After Utah Forward’s Contract Extension
The Utah Mammoth recently signed forward Logan Cooley to a significant contract extension worth $80 million, with an average annual value (AAV) of $10 million. This extension has raised concerns for the Detroit Red Wings as they prepare for similar contractual challenges with their young core.
Rising Challenges for the Red Wings
As the league’s salary cap continues to rise, the Red Wings find themselves in a critical position. They have four promising players whose contracts will need addressing in the next few seasons:
- Simon Edvinsson
- Marco Kasper
- Emmitt Finnie
- Axel Sandin-Pellikka
Cooley, now in his third season with the Utah Mammoth affiliates, has demonstrated impressive progress, averaging over one point per game in the current season.
Evaluating Future Contracts
The potential for significant salary increases is a growing concern. Cooley’s extension is indicative of rising market values for young talents. Edvinsson is currently eligible for an extension, while Kasper becomes eligible in the 2026-27 season, and both Finnie and Sandin-Pellikka in 2027-28. If these players excel, the Red Wings may face an even more significant financial dilemma than they do now.
Current Performance of Young Players
Examining the current performance of the Red Wings’ young talents is key:
- Emmitt Finnie: Eight points and four goals in 10 games.
- Marco Kasper: Struggling with one point in 10 games, but has shown potential in past seasons.
- Simon Edvinsson: On track to achieve half a point per game, with room for further improvement.
- Axel Sandin-Pellikka: Adjusting to the league, yet displaying defensive capabilities with 16 blocks and a solid Corsi rating.
Future Extensions: Key Considerations
Edvinsson’s upcoming contract negotiation presents a unique challenge. He has proven himself as a reliable top-four defenseman, averaging 20:57 of ice time. The question remains whether General Manager Steve Yzerman should offer an eight-year deal if Edvinsson continues on his current trajectory or if a shorter bridge deal would be more prudent.
As new talents emerge, including Finnie, who was overlooked in the 2023 NHL Draft, and Sandin-Pellikka, the landscape of salary expectations will shift. Monitoring these players’ progress is crucial as the Red Wings prepare for a future that could bring significant financial implications.
Overall, the situation facing the Red Wings underscores the complexities of managing a young roster in a rapidly evolving salary cap environment. The team must strategize to retain its core while navigating the challenges posed by rising contract values.
