Gagner wanting more than he's worth and then some

 Has one night gotten to his head? On February 2, 2012, Edmonton Oilers centerman Sam Gagner had one of those nights only legends would dream of. Four & four assists in an 8-4 win over the Chicago Blackhawks; the only problem those nights are too far and few between. Why are bringing this up you ask? Gagner, your typical 2^nd line center, but one whom will never be a number one center; is seeking 5.5 million and is due to go to salary arbitration on Monday.

   I almost fell out of my chair when I seen the number of 5.5. Two instant thought came to my head; 1> there is no harm in swinging for the fences. 2> this is Gagner’s way of saying to the Oilers he wants out and now. There are three main reasons why Gagner will never get his 5.5 million, 1> He’s never scored 20 goals in his six year career. 2> He’s never gotten more than 50 points within season. 3> unless the Oilers have two or more injuries to the young core, he will never be a top line forward in Edmonton.

   The one comparable in the NHL would be Tyler Bozak; whom signed earlier in the off season, five years with an average of 4.2 million per year. One can go as far saying Bozak is more of a complete two way centerman.

   The only way Gagner gets his money, is if the arbitrator doesn’t know hockey. I would almost bet the Oilers would walk if he’s rewarded more than 4.5 million a year.