Some quotes from Markov's agent Don Meehan. Basically saying there haven't been any discussions yet, and that Gauthier told him he wants to wait "until the right time".
I can't see Markov wanting to go elsewhere so I'm not too concerned. I guess it makes sense to see how the injury heals up first. And Price should be the #1 priority right now.
But I hope they get something done well ahead of next July 1st to not keep us all in suspense!
The GOOD news is that Meehan says recovery is going really well, and it wouldn't be impossible for Markov to be ready as early as opening night. But it seems more likely he'll miss just a little bit of time at the start to not risk re-injuring it.
Can we sign Price that has no contract for the up coming year before we sign Markov that at least has a contract for next season? Markov is a big piece of are team, but I think Price is as well.
I believe any extension would have to fit under the current cap number as well (doesn't count towards this year's cap). With us being so close to the cap, it's unlikely anything will happen right away.
PG definitely needs to keep focus on the big priority - signing Price. Markov, as far as I know, has no intention to leave Montreal. He's happy here, and he even became a Canadian citizen.
I believe any extension would have to fit under the current cap number as well (doesn't count towards this year's cap). With us being so close to the cap, it's unlikely anything will happen right away.
If they signed him to an extension today, his cap hit starting next year would only kick in on July 1st and would have no impact on this year's cap.
Well, hopefully he'll re-sign. Whether he re-signs or not though, I think we should make a pitch for Kaberle next summer. He loves the Toronto area, but can't stand coach Wilson.
With Hamrlik and Gill gone too, Gauthier better be very creative to rebuild his d-corp.
This makes no sense what so ever. I REALLY hate these ridiculous statements that have ZERO baring on reality and are based on someones passive aggresive nature. We have 10 months to sign Markov who has no intentions of leaving Montreal. Think to yourself how many players will be UFA's next year who don't have a contract offer or talks with their team yet. Now add the fact he's rehabbing his knee and ask yourself, how is PG supposed to talk contract to him right now? God what a ridiculous comment to make.
I find Gauthier's "until the right time" the most intriguing quote. What's the "right time"? Is it after the Habs see true progress of Markov in terms of health and re-gained ability? Does it just mean the "right time" in terms of avoiding a sideshow? Or is it a combination of both? Whatever the case I like the "wait and see" attitude because of the injury status.
Players have been known to take a hometown discount for whatever reason only to bail for a better contract down the road. This will be I suppose Markov's last chance at a somewhat lucrative contract so I wouldn't rule out the possibility of him bailing despite what he's said.
Kaberle would be an interesting option especially since some of his well known countrymen are already on the team. I'd keep Gill or Hamrlik in mind only at very good discounts and based on their performance after this season. Both came to the Habs as free agents and were very important components of last year's success. If other options don't pan out I wouldn't rule out one or the other.
