I would think so but it all depends on next year

Hertl's "vibe" doesn't seem like he'd hold out for money.
But we never know and it all depends on:
- Expansion Draft (what direction SJS go)
- NHL '21 Draft (if they make a trade like Wilson has alluded to acquiring more 1sts or 2nds if he gets the shot)
- UFA/ RFA Period (who we sign or don't sign)
- Pre 2021/22 TDL performance

So there is way to many variables for now. And given Hertl's injury history I'd think the Sharks would be hesitant to offer more than 4-5 years especially with the teams current trajectory

Another variable would be Hertl's 3 team trade list.

Unless Hertl is open to actually helping the Sharks by expanding his trade list, a trade list of only three teams is enormous leverage.

If Hertl decides to use it, it will pose enormous problems for a possible rebuild.

I really hope we don't get rid of Hertl, but it probably will happen.

Termmmmmmmm,

Wilson probablt won't give more than 4-5 years and I would guess 4. We see Hertl as the transition from the Cooch and Burns core to the Meier, Ferraro, Merks etc core, and that's the time frame of the transition

Gee, should the out of playoffs Sharks be giving another long term contract to a 28 year old?

Think about it from Hertl’s point of view. This is his one and only chance to get a big payday. There is no chance he signs a 4 year deal. If Wilson doesn’t offer him a 8 year deal he will go UFA. Wilson’s choice is trade him or sign him to a long term deal.

Given injury history, ESPECIALLY with the flat cap world we are living in, no one will offer him 7 years, nor will the Sharks offer 8

You are kidding yourself. History tells us otherwise. Name the last player as good as Hertl that accepted a 4 year deal instead of going UFA?

The majority of the Bruins roster...
And they don't even have the injury history. After stuff in recent history with Karlsson Nyquist etc, you don't think teams will be a little more hesitant, ESPECIALLY with the flat cap

Krejci 6 year deal until age 35
Bergeron 8 til 36
Marchand 8 til 36
Coyle 6 til 34
Who are you talking about on the Bruins?
Last summer the flat cap did squeeze some UFAs, but those who got squeezed signed 1 year deals hoping to cash in later. Signing a 4 year deal for the last of your prime years is foolish. If that’s all Wilson offers, he’s going to go UFA.