They would have that dead cap space next year no matter what. Now they have him for the season and can trade him at the deadline for a prospect and some draft picks.

Next summer, Fiala will be in the exact same position as Sam Reinhart. 26 years old and arbitration eligible, and being able to force UFA the following summer through arbitration. Guerin should take note and look to trade him at the deadline this year if an extension isn't done, otherwise they'll probably lose him for an underwhelming haul similar to Buffalo's return from Florida for Reinhart.

It's a value signing for this year and will look fantastic if they're able to trade him for a 1st and/or quality center prospect. If he hits arbitration next summer or is traded for an underwhelming return, this contract will look like a mistake.

Can't really answer yes/no right now. Too soon to tell.

Money is fair.
He was on pace for 30+ this year, almost 30 last year.
5 mil is fair for that. More term would be nice, but that can work out in both the player and the clubs favor. If he signs long term now, it's term till 33. Then his contracts probably suck.
If he signs it next year, it's term till 34.
I don't mind that for the player or the club.

Next year he can accept his qo if he chooses and walk to Ufa.

A first line winger in his prime is more useful than a non top 5 pick first. The majority of firsts after the top 5 or so will end up as a worse player than a first line winger...

Sure, but I'd rather take the chance, even if I end up with 7 years of a middle-six winger on a ELC and bridge deal. Certainly better than one year of an expensive top-line winger that will walk for no return at UFA.

Yeah the gift to him of ability to take arbitration or his qo was pretty weak negotiation

Seems okay I think.

Well if this was signed last offseason it would’ve made sense