The Utah Mammoth currently have three pending unrestricted free agents on their roster set to hit the open market on July 1. It appears Michael Carcone's time with the team is coming to an end, Robert Bortuzzo’s future remains unclear, and that leaves Nick Bjugstad — the one UFA the Mammoth should seriously try to bring back.
The 32-year-old has been a key piece of Utah’s bottom-six and keeping him around should be a priority for the front office.
If Utah is aiming to make a big splash this off-season, they’re going to spend a big portion of their $21 million in available cap space. But what they can’t end up with no money left to fill out the bottom of the lineup, leading to an overly top-heavy forward group. The best way to manage that is by holding onto players like Bjugstad, who bring veteran experience and have a respected voice in the locker room.
According to CapWages.com, Bjugstad is projected to earn around $2.3 million annually on a two-year deal. That’s ideal for someone who can give you 10 to 12 minutes a night, kill penalties, and can score 20-25 points per season. Last season in 66 games he scored eight goals and 11 assists for 19 points. His season was shortened to due injuries, but in past seasons he has reached 20+ points rather easily.
It also makes sense when you consider Utah could have a few rookies cracking the lineup next season, including Danil But, Tij Iginla, and potentially whoever they select with the fourth overall pick. Good teams need experienced depth players who understand their role and bring consistent effort.
GM Bill Armstrong has a very intriguing off-season ahead with major decisions and potentially a star signing in free agency. But don’t rule out Bjugstad signing an extension and continuing his role with the organization
