It's no secret the Calgary Flames would like to sign Elias Lindholm to a long-term extension in advance of a potential arbitration hearing.
They are close to doing just that, according to a report from TSN's Mike Kelly.
The Calgary Flames appear to be closing in on an extension with RFA, Elias Lindholm. Details being worked on but expectation is 5 or 6 years at around $5M per.
Lindholm has averaged 48 points per 82 games played over the last two seasons. That's high-end 2nd line production.
His rate stats aren't as impressive, though. During the same time frame, he averaged 1.58 points per 60 at 5v5. That ranked him 171st among forwards to play 1,000+ minutes, which is fringe 2nd line production. He's not super efficient.
Lindholm does bring some value defensively – particularly on the penalty kill, although last year's numbers dipped – but I think $5 million per is a little too much for what he provides at this point.
Now, he doesn't turn 24 until the end of 2018 and there is a chance he takes another step forward. That will need to happen for him to provide value at $5 million.
While hardly egregious, the rumored deal does seem like a bit of an overpay.