Bruins sign Charlie Coyle, Chris Wagner to contract extensions
By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
The Bruins announced on Wednesday that they’ve signed forwards Charlie Coyle and Chris Wagner to contract extensions.
Here’s the basic breakdown: Coyle is signed for six years and $31.5 million, an AAV of $5.25 million. Wagner, meanwhile, signed for three years and $4.05 million ($1.35 million AAV).
Credit is due to Ryan Whitney, former NHL-er and host of the “Spittin’ Chiclets” podcast on Barstool Sports, who I’m hearing Charlie Coyle and Chris Wagner are very close to resigning with the bruins. Maybe 6 year extension for Coyle and 3 year extension for Wagner. But if none of this happens don’t chirp me
Coyle, 27, has upped his offensive production with the Bruins from last season, with 14 points in 24 games. He’s coming off a career-best playoff run in which he tied for the Bruins team lead with nine goals in 24 playoff games. He’s a big-bodied forward who forechecks and protects the puck well, which has fit in well with the Bruins’ needs and Bruce Cassidy’s system. When he’s at his best, Coyle is a factor in all three zones. An AAV of $5.25 million for everything the Weymouth, Mass. brings to the table has a chance to be a great value.
Wagner, meanwhile, has proven to be a reliable bottom-six forward for the Bruins with his forechecking and physical edge. Like Coyle he’s also a Massachusetts native, hailing from Walpole, so you can expect a million snarky pokes in the ribs from the likes of 98.5 The Sports Hub’s own Adam Jones.
Expensive contracts for David Krejci ($7.25 million) and David Backes ($6 million) come off the books after next season, making Coyle a solid bridge to what the Bruins hope to be their next era of centers led by prospects like Jack Studnicka, John Beecher, and Trent Frederic.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.
