The Tampa Bay Lightning probably weren’t going to go after Charlie Coyle, the 34-year-old forward who finished the season with Columbus. Now, it looks like no one is going to get the chance. The Columbus Blue Jackets are re-signing Coyle to a six-year deal that carries a $6 million AAV. The new contract will keep him in red, white, and blue until 2032. Welcome to the new salary cap.
Coyle was ranked 7th in The Athletic’s Big Free Agency Board and is solid, middle-of-the-lineup center. He had a respectable 58-points in his first season with the Blue Jackets after they acquired him from Colorado for prospect Gavin Brindley and a couple of draft picks. With a fairly young roster he provides a veteran presence. Is it an overpay? Only time will tell this summer. Due to the boosted cap, expect some decent size deals for middle-of-the-line-up forwards.
The Lightning are fairly stacked down the middle of the ice, so Coyle probably wasn’t in their summer plans, although he likely would have fit right in with what they want to do. His 40 points at 5v5 were second on the team and he won 52.5% of his draws at even strength. The right-handed shot also hasn’t missed a game in five seasons.
So, how does his re-signing affect the Lightning? While they might not have needed a center, they are going to kick the tires on some forwards. If Coyle’s deal sets the market for a middle-six forward, then players like Anthony Mantha, Mason Marchment, or Viktor Arvidsson might cost the Lightning a little bit more money.
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