It's confirmed for Kent Hughes: he pulled off a masterstroke

Indeed, Hughes secured an eight-year contract worth $7.6 million per year for Juraj Slafkovsky. He did not hesitate, and the announcement was made on the first day of eligibility, July 1st.

If we look at a comparable in the NHL, the Los Angeles Kings signed forward Quinton Byfield yesterday to a five-year, $6.25 million per year contract.

What you need to know is that these are two very similar players. Byfield is 6'5" and weighs 225 lbs, while Slaf is 6'4" and 225 lbs.

In 179 games, Quinton Byfield has accumulated 88 points, including the last two seasons with 22 and 55 points.

Juraj Slafkovsky has so far accumulated 60 points in 121 games, a nearly identical ratio, but he is two years younger than Byfield.

Yes, the Kings forward signed for $1.35 million less per year, but at the end of his contract, he will be 26 years old and an unrestricted free agent. This will undoubtedly put pressure on the Kings, and his next deal will be much more lucrative.

Kent Hughes managed to sign a similar player, but two years younger, for three more years. This proves how much Slaf wanted to stay, and Hughes played his cards well.