Kadri or Armstrong could take 2nd line winger spot
If any NHL player was aware of the perils of contract arbitration, you would think it would be Clarke MacArthur. Last year he filed for arbitration in Atlanta, and though the arbitrator ruled 2.4 million for Mac, the Thrashers walked away from the deal. Turned into a last-minute free agent, Clarke signed with the Leafs for $1.1 million.
Why would he want to go to arbitration this year, when it failed him so miserably last time?
Admittedly, after MacArthur's career season, the risk is now lessened. Even if the arbitrator awards a high number and Burkie walks away from it, other NHL teams will pony up significant dough for a 60+ point scorer. Still, Clarkie, you really clicked here so why not stay a few years?
If I were Brian Burke, this is what I would offer CM:
One year for $2.5 million
OR
Two years for $5.2 million
OR
Three years for 8.0 million
If I were MacArthur and Burke was offering more than that, I'd jump at the offer, but then again, I'm a Leafs fan. The "worst city in North American sports" is also the hockey capital of the world. The only other contenders are Moscow and Montreal, and Toronto wins hands down.
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