I actually think Pius Suter has been extremely consistent in the 4 years leading up to this latest one:
He’s averaged 15:42 of Icetime and put up consecutive seasons of 14, 15, 14 and 14 goals.
This past season with the disappearance of EP40, trading of JTM and late season injury to Chytil he got more ice time and more top 6 Icetime.
His ice time jumps to 17:20 as a result and he puts up 25 goals (shooting percentage is 5% higher than his career average as well).
…so, if you’re paying a 29 YO for this past season, that looks like a mistake waiting to happen.
If you’re looking at it as a guy that will get you 15 goals, is good on the PK, is low maintenance (and your coach will probably love him), can play anywhere up or down the lineup including in the top 6 (even as a center for short periods) there is value there.
On the other hand he lacks foot speed, isn’t great in the faceoff circle and lacks size…
In my opinion he’s worth whatever you value his best NHL season before this last one. Then factor in for the utility he provides and the rising cap.
He was horribly underpaid each of the last 2 seasons in Vancouver.
The unfortunate part of it for Suter is part of what makes him so useful to a team is how much he provides for the money.
Pay him 5 million per and now you’re left with a guy who is undersized, makes your forward group slower, and ‘only puts up 15 goals a season.’
I personally think he’s still a value at $4 million. Maybe even at 4.25 considering the dearth of centers available. At 4.5 million plus it seems like you’re putting the player in a position to fail.
I would expect the Flyers (and Tocchet) to make him a substantial offer if he makes it to market.