Quick Hits: Arizona Coyotes, Marc Methot, Andrei Vasilevskiy, and Chris Kunitz
Chris Kunitz retires from the NHL. Andrei Vasilevskiy signs an eight-year contract extension.
Another new Coyotes owner

Arizona Coyotes: Alex Meruelo is now the majority owner in the Arizona Coyotes after purchasing it from Andrew Barroway.

“This is an incredible moment for me and my entire family,” said Meruelo. “The Arizona Coyotes team is poised to do great things on and off the ice. I look forward to helping hockey continue to thrive in the desert, and I am committed to providing our passionate fans, loyal partners and the entire State of Arizona with a team they can be proud of for years to come.”

Barroway keeps a minority stake in the team and will be an Alternate Governor

Methot back on the ice

Shawn Simpson: Defenseman Marc Methot said that his knee is progressing and he’s back on the ice skating. The next couple of weeks for him are key.

He could be low risk addition for someone if he is healthy.

Vasilevskiy’s eight-year extension

Cap Friendly: Salary breakdown of Andre Vasilevskiy’s eight-year contract extension with the Tampa Bay Lightning.

2020-21: $8.5M SB -$3.5M base
2021-22: $10M SB -$1M base
2022-23: $6.5M SB -$4.5M base
2023-24: $5M SB -$4M base
2024-25: $4.5M SB -$5.5M base
2025-26: $4M SB-$5M base
2026-27: $3M SB-$5M base
2027-28: $3M SB-$3M base

Cap Friendly: Vasilevskiy gets a no-movement clause for years two through five of the deal. The last three years there is a modified no-trade clause – a 10-team trade list.

Bryan Burns: Vasilevskiy is now the 3rd highest paid goaltender behind Carey Price ($10.5 million) and Sergei Bobrovsky ($10 million).

Kunitz retires

Chicago Blackhawks: Forward Chris Kunitz has retired from the NHL after 15 seasons. He will be a Player Development Adviser for the Blackhawks organization.

Statement from Kunitz:

“I feel very fortunate to have been a part of four amazing organizations over the last 15 years. First and foremost, I’d like to sincerely think the Anaheim Ducks, the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Chicago Blackhawks. Every one of these organizations was the ultimate example, not only to me, but to my children, one what true professionalism should be.

Secondly, I’d like to thank the owners, coaches, trainers, management. Your love for the game, the team and the community was exemplified daily. I am very fortunate to have worked with every one of you.”