Everyone, including Friedman mentioned that he didn’t go for $5M x 6. He was wanting $5.75M x 6. As of right now, I’m thinking that he likely won’t sign until close to (if not into) free agency, and he’ll get what the market dictates. However, I think $5M x 6 is definitely more reasonable now than it was before in Phil’s mind.

I think if they plan on letting Tatar walk they could find a middle ground with Danault at like 5.25-5.5M. They do have a good number of top 6 wingers now so I think Tatar walking isn't out of question but Idk.

Look what happened to Hall. He was probably offered 9.5m X 7 by Arizona, then Covid happened and Hall didn't play up to previous standards. So he settled for a 8m X 1, and going by this year, he won't get as much next season.
What Denault has done this season, he more of 3m player. 3.5m X 4 might be his max contract now...and it's not coming from the Habs. IMO Deanault really misevaluated the new market in the NHL

Danault will be lucky to get an extension like that ever again.

It's disheartening that he would swipe left on the generosity that was shown by the team he grew up cheering for as a child and made him the hockey player he is today.

Word to the wise: Never bite the hand that feeds you.

I’d say it’s very likely that Tatar isn’t back with the team. I expected as much immediately after Toffoli, and Tatar has probably been the worst forward in the top 9 this year, and coupled with cap space and a C being the more pressing need, I can’t see him returning.

Another proverb. " A bird in hand is worth two in the bush." So 5m X 6 wasn't enough. A lot more downside than in hoping some team is going to offer 5.75 X 6 in the future

Tatar is gone, caufield will take his place and if Danault signs it's closer to 4 million then anything. Hasnt played well, will likely be 3Cby the end of the month and the free market that had him wanting more then 5 last off season is dried up.

Only team I can see him getting over 5 from on his next contract is Buffalo and have with that

I can't see him getting close to 5.75m×6 in this market. Maybe on a short deal he gets the 5 million. The ufa center market is interesting this offseason.