NHL Free Agency Odds - Bouwmeester, Sedin twins top the list
In some years, NHL free agency odds aren’t much to get excited about for online betting fans. The 2009 offseason, however, should be one to remember. Not since the lockout ended have so many high-quality players hit the open market at once. Let’s explore some of the biggest fish out there and predict where they’ll end up after unrestricted free agency starts July 1.
NHL Free Agency odds – Bouwmeester the main target, but he still has question marks
- Bouwmeester still untested in “big games”
- Sedin twins attractive, but seeking a long deal
- Hossa should stay in Detroit
TIER 1
Jay Bouwmeester, defenseman (Age 25)
He’s young, he’s big, he can skate like the wind, and he regularly plays against opponents’ top forwards. He’ll easily be the most sought-after player on the market this summer, though he doesn’t come without question marks, as some question his clutch ability since he’s never played a playoff game. The Leafs will push hard for him, but he’s from Western Canada, so they’re a long shot. In the end, I think he does shun the West, but to play for a contender.
Odds Prediction: Philadelphia Flyers, seven years, $49 million
Daniel Sedin, winger, and Henrik Sedin, center (Age 28)
The twins have made it quite clear that they must play together, so whichever team signs the point-per-game forwards needs deep pockets. Their price tag isn’t absurd – they reportedly want $5.5 million per year – but their desired contract length is. They want a deal paying them until they’re 41 years old. The Ducks and Rangers will push hard, but most sportsbook buzz suggests they’re staying.
Odds Prediction: Vancouver Canucks, 10 years, $60 million each
Marian Hossa, winger (Age 30)
The one-year deal almost paid off, as Hossa got back to the Stanley Cup Final only to lose again. His NHL free agency odds suggest he’ll play for another powerhouse but long-term this time – and I think he stays put. The Wings are great at locking up stars for lengthy, cost-efficient deals.
Odds Prediction: Detroit Red Wings, seven years, $42 million
TIER 2
Scott Niedermayer, defenseman (Age 35)
Most NHL Free Agency Odds followers think Niedermayer will keep his illustrious career going for at least one more year. I see him staying out West but heading North – and taking a hometown discount, if you get my drift.
Odds Prediction: Vancouver Canucks, one year, $4.5 million
Michael Cammalleri, center/winger (Age 27)
A natural sniper, Cammalleri plays best when surrounded with other stars (see: Iginla, Jarome). From what NHL betting fans can tell, he seems more interested in money and comfort than winning at this stage of his career. Why else would there be no rumors suggesting he stays in Calgary? He may very well be coming home to Hogtown.
Odds Prediction: Toronto Maple Leafs, five years, $30 million
Alex Kovalev – winger (Age 36)
Few NHL Free Agency Odds are tougher to forecast than Kovalev’s. The Habs want him back and reportedly offered him the captaincy and a one-year deal paying him at least $6 million; they’d probably try to deal him at the trade deadline line if (when?) they fall out of the race. However, the Oilers are reportedly interested too and I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Rangers or Pens make a play.
Odds Prediction: Edmonton Oilers, two years, $12 million
Marian Gaborik – winger (Age 27)
The speedy winger has talent to spare but he’s brittle as can be, meaning he can be had at a discount. It’s hard to say if Vancouver can re-sign both Sedins plus grab Niedermayer and Gaborik, but it’s possible. Rumor has it Gaborik already bought a house in Vancouver...
Odds Prediction: Vancouver Canucks, four years, $20 million
For more NHL free agency odds and sports betting info, visit the Betting Edge at BetOnline.com.
Who better to offer great sports betting and hockey tips than a native Canadian? Like any good Canuck, Don Melrose eats, sleeps, breathes and bets hockey, making him the perfect NHL handicapper. Thoughts or questions? Email Comments@BetOnline.com.
