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Jake Muzzin knows he couldn't have signed his contract at a better time

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Danny Potvin
April 29, 2020  (4:56 PM)
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On February 24, 31-year-old defenseman Jake Muzzin may have made one of the best decisions of his career. Muzzin and the Toronto Maple Leafs reached an agreement of $ 22.5 million for four seasons with an annual value of 5.625 million.

Just over two months later, it can be said that this was an excellent decision given the current situation in the NHL. In addition to being able to play with one of the best teams in the NHL for another five seasons, Muzzin will not have to worry about signing a deal for less money compared to several other upcoming free agents this offseason.

Although this signing can be considered very advantageous for the Maple Leafs blue liner, he remains very empathetic to the situation of his colleagues. If the situation does not resolve quickly or the NHL decides to hold closed meetings, the increase in the salary cap could be lower than expected or even non-existent. This would mean that some unrestricted and restricted free agents may have to settle for contracts lower than originally expected.

"It's bad. There is the unknown that remains in your thoughts. I don't know if these players will get what they think they should have, or if everything will be normal, or if something will drastically change and force them to review the contract structure. I don't know ..." he said on Tuesday during a videoconference.

"I think it would have had an effect on me and I think it will have an effect on some players, yes."

That being said, if the league is to resume play, Muzzin says he is healthy and will be ready to go, which is a good news for the Maple Leafs.