Quinton Byfield has garnered attention with his outstanding performance this season, prompting speculation about his upcoming contract with the LA Kings. Both fans and management are eagerly anticipating the outcome for the promising young forward.
A significant decision facing general manager Rob Blake is whether to offer Byfield a long-term contract or a bridge deal. The concept of a “bridge” contract is designed to retain players as restricted free agents (RFAs) until they become eligible for unrestricted free agency (UFA) status. Byfield, not set to reach UFA status until 2028, could potentially benefit from a bridge deal to maintain his RFA status.
Conversely, the LA Kings could opt for a long-term contract extension. If the management believes in Byfield’s potential and considers him a cornerstone of the team’s future, signing him to a long-term deal could prove to be a strategic move. This approach has been adopted by many teams with their young stars, as evidenced in the case of Matt Boldy from the Minnesota Wild.
According to contract projections from Evolvinghockey.com, a bridge contract for Byfield could span 2-3 years at approximately £3-£4 million per season, whereas a long-term extension could cover 7-8 years at around £6 million per year, with some speculating a figure closer to £7-£8 million.
Taking into account the LA Kings’ current salary cap situation, a bridge deal may offer more flexibility for the team, particularly with Anze Kopitar’s contract in place for the next two seasons. However, if Byfield continues to progress, his value could significantly rise, potentially justifying a higher salary following a bridge deal. Hence, some lean towards the long-term option, as it could yield value in the later years of the contract.
Many have confidence in Byfield’s potential to emerge as a top-line forward for the LA Kings. While a higher salary in the initial years may pose challenges in roster management, the projected production and value of his contract in the long run could outweigh these concerns.
The decision regarding Byfield’s next contract will undoubtedly impact the LA Kings’ future. It will be intriguing to observe how this situation unfolds for both the player and the organization.