Two key pending RFAs need new deals, and the time to negotiate has all but run out. But if the history of NHL GM decisionmaking is any indication, deadlines usually produce timely resolutions.
The Red Wings have elected to take starting goaltender Petr Mrazek to arbitration, and the parties will presumably head there as scheduled for Wednesday. Club-elected arbitration is chosen by NHL teams in order to protect an RFA from offer sheets, a clear indication that the club highly regards their asset. Little in the way of rumours have come out of Detroit on this front, but the parties are expected to reach an agreement in short order.
Tyson Barrie is scheduled for arbitration this Friday, having elected to head there himself. Some believe Barrie and the Avs are destined to head to arbitration. There have also been plenty of rumours surrounding the blueliner, and despite optimism from the Avalanche management that Barrie will be back, the Oilers, Canucks and Jets continue to show interest. Even if a short term deal gets done, it won't be long before the Barrie trade rumours resume.
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