Markov rumor

It was rumored yesterday that the Sharks had talked to Markov about a
contract, but rejected him when his price was too high. Too bad, he would
have been a good pickup, but I understand what DW is trying to do. By
signing a UFA to a multi-year contract this year, he will have to get rid of
two (or so) RFAs next season due to the cap.

I also think DW is doing the right thing by pre-extending his RFAs/UFAs. As
I understand the rule, if you sign your FAs during the summer prior to their
summer of free agency, the extension doesn't count against the immediate
seasons cap. So the next window for negotiation doesn't start until
January, and by then events can affect the market value of the player, and
it might be harder to get them to sign or even negotiate until after the
season. For example, if Burke had extended Penner last summer, he wouldn't
have lost him to the Oilers this summer. This rule is forcing GMs to
properly evaluate their talent, and bet on the come a bit, in re-signing
them, or risk offer sheets and extended negotiations before the next season.