Huberdeau kicks off long term contract talks with Flames

It took nearly the entire weekend, but I think that Friday evening's blockbuster trade between the Calgary Flames and Florida Panthers have finally sunk in for most hockey fans.

Matthew Tkachuk, of course, is now a member of the Florida Panthers and has a shiny new 8 year, $76 million contract. The Flames have Jonathan Huberdeau, MacKenzie Weegar, prospect Cole Schwindt and a 2025 1st round pick. It was a HUGE haul for Flames GM Brad Treliving, but you can't help Flames fans for feeling nervous about the contract status' of both Huberdeau and Weegar. Both players are pending unrestricted free agents and given how things played out with Johnny Gaudreau in the final year of his deal, you can't blame Flames fans for feeling like Huberdeau and Weegar already may have one foot out the door.

But, when meeting with the Calgary media for the first time today Huberdeau admitted that he'd welcome long-term contract negotiations with the team and that his agent has already had discussions with Treliving.

Check it out:

Obviously, that's cause for optimism. Talk is cheap, however. Let's not forget that Gaudreau also had negotiations about re-signing in Calgary long-term... and how'd that work out? 

If Huberdeau puts up another 100+ point season and continues to garner Hart Trophy consideration, he'll be looking to absolutely break the bank on his next deal. Weegar also looks poised for a big pay day if he can continue his progression as one of the league's best emerging two way defenders.

In any case, Huberdeau seems sincere and is likely champing at the bit to start the season with his new club. Personally, I think he'll have another stellar campaign with the potential to outproduce Tkachuk in Florida. Add into the equation that the Flames get a legit top 4 Dman in Weegar and two additional young assets in this trade and I think it's a slam dunk win for Treliving and the Flames. Now, if Treliving can't get Huberdeau or Weegar under contract though... that changes the equation. But as things stand right now, with nothing but optimism abound, this looks like a big win for the Flames.