The Nashville Predators are at a critical juncture, facing the pressing issue of re-signing restricted free agents (RFAs) Philip Tomasino and Juuso Parssinen. With training camp fast approaching and the clock ticking, the organization is under significant pressure to finalize agreements with these two players or risk seeing them depart.

The situation is further complicated by the recent trade of Cody Glass, which provided the team with an additional $2.5 million in cap space. This move was anticipated to pave the way for new contracts for Tomasino and Parssinen, but as of late August, both players remain unsigned. This delay raises the question: what could be the hold-up in re-signing Tomasino and Parssinen?

General Manager Barry Trotz, who is known for his strategic acumen, appears to be navigating a complex financial landscape. With the team currently holding only $3,095,801 in projected cap space, the margin for maneuver is incredibly tight. This cap space is practically negligible in the context of NHL salaries, especially when considering that Spencer Stastney is signed to a two-way deal which could impact the team’s cap if he plays at the NHL level. Trotz’s challenge is to find a way to balance the books while keeping both Tomasino and Parssinen.

In assessing the situation, it’s crucial to evaluate the potential value of both players. Tomasino, with his higher offensive ceiling and top-six potential, certainly has the upper hand in terms of long-term upside. However, his current production and the Predators’ recent performance may affect the negotiations. Tomasino has shown glimpses of his potential, averaging around 0.5 points per game over his 148 NHL appearances. His limited ice time, averaging just 12:40 per game, may have stifled his development somewhat, but his skill set still presents considerable promise.

On the other hand, Parssinen, known for his physical play and versatility, is viewed as a safer bet, particularly for depth positions. His value may come at a more manageable cost compared to Tomasino, which could make him an appealing option for Trotz if financial constraints are a significant factor.

Given the current cap situation, Trotz may be faced with a difficult decision between the two players. Parssinen could potentially sign for around $1 million annually, which is a reasonable estimate considering his position and experience. This amount would be in line with what veterans like Mark Jankowski and Michael McCarron are earning. Such a contract would be fair and provide Parssinen with his first NHL standard deal.

Tomasino, however, is likely to command a higher salary due to his higher skill level and potential. The Predators have already extended a qualifying offer of $874,125 to Tomasino, but it’s clear that he might be seeking a deal in the $1.5 to $2 million range. Whether Trotz is willing to stretch the budget to meet Tomasino’s demands remains to be seen. The financial constraints suggest that a deal at the higher end of this spectrum may not be feasible without additional adjustments to the roster.

The possibility of an offer sheet from another team also looms, although it’s not highly anticipated. Such a move would compel the Predators to either match the offer or let the player go in exchange for compensation. Given the current market and the players’ profiles, it seems unlikely that either Tomasino or Parssinen will attract substantial offers from other teams.

The best-case scenario for the Predators involves both players accepting team-friendly bridge deals. These short-term contracts would allow Tomasino and Parssinen to prove their worth and potentially secure more lucrative deals in the future. This approach would provide Trotz with the flexibility needed to manage the team’s salary cap effectively while keeping both players in the fold.

If Tomasino values his tenure with the Predators and is willing to accept a deal closer to Parssinen’s potential contract, it could facilitate a resolution. Conversely, if Tomasino insists on a higher salary, Trotz may have to make a tough decision about which player to prioritize.

Critics of Tomasino have pointed to his struggles to fully embrace the Predators’ aggressive playing style. This critique has been voiced by figures like Assistant Coach Andrew Brunette, who has emphasized the need for Tomasino to integrate more of the team’s identity into his game. Brunette’s comments suggest that Tomasino needs to show a stronger commitment to the team’s playing style to solidify his role.

As the start of the season approaches, the absence of Parssinen or Tomasino from the lineup could pose challenges for the Predators. Without Parssinen, the team might have to rely more heavily on their prospect pool or make additional adjustments to their roster. Tomasino, already on the fringes of the starting lineup, might face the possibility of being a healthy scratch if he remains unsigned.

However, the Nashville Predators face a delicate balancing act as they work to re-sign Philip Tomasino and Juuso Parssinen. With limited cap space and the need to make strategic decisions, GM Barry Trotz must navigate these negotiations carefully. The outcome of these discussions will significantly impact the team’s roster and their preparations for the upcoming season. As fans and analysts await a resolution, the hope is that both players will find common ground with the organization, ensuring their contributions to the team’s future success.