Hockey is a game, played for fun and enjoyment. However, at a professional level it becomes a business. Montreal Canadiens' defence man P.K Subban has learned that the hard way this summer, after his contract expired July 1st. Both Subban and Montreal's camps have been attempting to reach a contract agreement throughout July, but the two sides failed to reach a common ground and today they had an arbitration hearing.
Today Subban and GM Marc Bergevin explained their cases to an arbitrator, who will hammer out a fair deal for both sides. Both player and team requested a one year deal, so that is what the arbitrator will base his contract on. Contract discussion is still allowed between Subban and Montreal, until the arbitrator releases the ruling. However, it doesn't sound like there will be any negociations. Judging by the fact Subban was looking for $8.5 million heading into arbitration, and the Habs offered $5.25 million, the two sides don't quite see eye to eye.
As reported by some of the hockey writers on scene of the arbitration, Subban didn't look happy at any time today, which doesn't point to any positives for Montreal. Assuming Subban signs a one year deal, by the end of it he will have one year until he is a unrestricted free agent. Marc Bergevin is playing hardball, trying to get the best deal possible for the club while Subban wants what he deserves. Most Canadiens' fans I have spoken too are not against the idea of giving Subban what he wants, as his electric, game-breaking talent isn't easy to come by.
Although it looks dark in Habs land right now, there are positives to remember while Subban and the Habs continue to work on a contract for the young blue liner. Subban has expressed multiple times he loves playing in Montreal, and he is perfectly happy there. Also, a couple years ago, another great young defence man names Shea Weber went to arbitration with his NHL club, the Nashville Predators. What do you know? Hes still playing there. Arbitration isn't an automatic fight between two sides, it is just two people trying to reach a deal fairly. After all, everyone just wants to enjoy the game itself after everything is said and done.
