Montreal Canadiens, P.K. Subban Set Arbitration Numbers

The Montreal Canadiens and P.K. Subban have announced what each side will be seeking in arbitration, and well, it’s good news for Canadiens fans.

The split is big, but due to the big numbers not outside of the norm when it comes to arbitration. These numbers are always inflated, and the fact that Subban is only seeking $8.5 means that the numbers on a long-term deal may just be more cap friendly than anticipated.

The deadline is still Friday, and the release of these numbers should not do anything but make people freak out more than they have been. The expectation is that a deal would get done and I don’t feel that has changed.

If anything, I am more optimistic now that the numbers have been released. Subban has constantly said that the Canadiens are where he wants to be and Montreal obviously wants Subban to stay as well.

I would expect a deal between $8.5 and $9 million for close to eight years. The fact that Montreal wants a one-year contract is simply to ensure that Subban stays a restricted free agent and they have one more chance to get a long-term deal without the fear of other teams entering the picture without a right to match.