There has been an issue in the New Jersey Devils community that has caused a sort of split amongst the fans. Anton Volchenkov or Bryce Salvador- who gets bought out this offseason? Would Lou buyout his captain? Honestly, trying to answer these questions is like choosing to get rid of the lesser evil. Both have similar statistics, are in their mid-to-late 30’s, and have undeserving contracts that have big cap hits. And with the NHL buyout period starting tomorrow, and the Devils still having one compliance buyout, this question is one that is crucial for this upcoming season.
First, let’s take a look at the Devils cap situation. The NHL salary cap projected to raise to around $70 million, according to cap geek, and the Devils have around $14 million to work with this offseason. Of the $56 million of salary already spent, Salvador and Volchenkov have a combined $7.4 million against the salary cap. Volchenkov is set to earn $4.25 million for the next two seasons before he becomes a UFA. Salvador, meanwhile, will earn $3.167 this upcoming season before becoming a UFA next offseason. If it only came down to contracts, Lou Lamoriello should buyout Volchenkov’s contract and suck up Salvador’s contract this season before letting him walk next year.
Anton Volchenkov
Both Salvador and Volchenkov have performed pretty poorly over the last few seasons. These are the point breakdowns for each player over the past 3 seasons. Even though Volchenkov has had more success on the score sheet, neither players’ stats is something to write home about. Another thing to take into account is the ability of each player to stay healthy and on the ice. Anton Volchenkov has missed numerous games each of the past few seasons due to various injuries, especially in his back. Salvador has had better luck throughout his time with the team, but he missed many games last season with an injury, and at 38 years old, who knows how much he has left in the tank. These are all questions that must be taken into account when Lamoriello decides to make his choice.
With one compliance buyout still on the table, Lou’s choice really comes down to two players, Anton Volchenkov and Bryce Salvador. It is still very much unknown which player he will buyout. Even though Salvador is the captain, he does not show it on the ice, and there are plenty of other potential locker room leaders that could become captain. And Volchenkov also hasn’t shown why he should stay on the team. When the decision is made, and if it is one of these players, Devils fans should be happy if one of these players is off the team to make room for the younger more skilled defensemen they have.
Follow John Fabrazzo on Twitter @jfabrazzo. Also here is a poll to add your opinion to the post.
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