Penguins File For Arbitration With Fleury
Matt Bodenschatz | Pittsburgh Penguins
Jun 13, 03:36 PM | Hype this story!
According to a the Pittsburgh Penguins website:
“The Pittsburgh Penguins have elected to file for salary arbitration with goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury, it was announced today by Executive Vice President and General Manager Ray Shero.
“Arbitration hearings are set by the National Hockey League and take place from July 20 to August 4. Both sides can continue to negotiate a contract until that time. As a result of the filing, the Penguins retain his rights and he will not become a restricted free agent on July 1.”
This is very good news. By taking this step, the Penguins have eliminated any possibility of another team signing Fleury to an unreasonable offer sheet.
It would seem this measure was taken for that reason alone, as various reports are indicating a deal between the Penguins and Fleury won’t be very difficult to reach.
If, by chance, a deal is not reached, Fleury’s salary would be determined by an independent arbitrator.
Comments
Pens1967
Jun 13, 04:40 PM
A smart move by Shero. He buys himself time to deal with Hossa, Malone, Orpik and Malkin
and also to prepare for the draft and he takes a bit of leverage away from Fleury by eliminating potential RFA suitors.
Alex
Jun 13, 06:08 PM
Hossa, Malkin, Fleury, Staal, Free Candy.
Watch Shero announce a presser to say that all 5 have signed long term deals.
Eric
Jun 13, 06:13 PM
I agree that this is a smart move as well. I think it was done more to buy some time instead of the talks of a new contract breaking down.
I’m hoping a new contract isn’t far behind, though.
Moncalvo
Jun 13, 07:07 PM
Agreed with the above, it is a shrewd move, likely one well briefed to Fleury’s team. It is good to see that Shero is making these types of procedural moves in support of the task ahead.
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