Which restricted free agents should the Arizona Coyotes look to retain on their roster?
The NHL offseason is finally here!
The free agency period officially begins on July 1. Which key Coyotes players are expected to become restricted free agents?
Matias Maccelli:
Matias Maccelli had a fantastic rookie campaign this past season as he had 11 goals, 38 assists and 49 points in 64 games.
The 22-year-old forward had the second most points by any rookie only trailing the Seattle Kraken’s Matty Beniers.
It will be interesting to see how Maccelli’s contract situation works out since he has only played a total of 87 games in his career. Despite showing promise, 87 games is a short sample size and he still has to prove he can produce at a consistent level through multiple seasons.
However, locking Maccelli long term could pay dividends for the Coyotes at his current value. Whether Coyotes general manager Bill Armstrong opts for a bridge deal or a multi-year contract, it's just important that they re-sign Maccelli.
Christian Fischer:
Christian Fischer had 13 goals, 14 assists and 27 points during the 2022-23 season for the Coyotes.
The 26-year-old forward has been with Arizona for the past seven years and wants to continue his career in the Valley for the foreseeable future.
“I haven’t had too many discussions yet with my agent so I don’t want to overstep or say anything I shouldn’t, but I think it’s pretty evident that I love being a Coyote and I put a very, very high value on being a leader on this team,” Fischer said back in April via PHNX’s Craig Morgan. “I fully believe that in two years’ time, we’re going to be a contending team. I believe that we have the core pieces here to be a playoff team; to win here.”
With interest from both parties to remain together, the Coyotes and Fischer should be able to get some sort of deal done.
Jack McBain:
Similar to Maccelli, Jack McBain just completed his rookie campaign where he had 12 goals, 14 assists and 26 points while playing all 82 games.
The 23-year-old centerman is one of the Coyotes young talented players still looking to make a mark in the NHL.
With Arizona still in a rebuilding stage, McBain fits perfectly since he has time to continue developing as a player with little pressure on him.
At McBain’s current age and potential as a valuable centerman, it's almost a no-brainer to ensure he remains in Arizona.