Matthews New Deal Playing a Massive Factor for Star Defenseman's Next Contract

Rasmus Dahlin has been one of the best young defensemen in the NHL for several seasons now. He has helped the Buffalo Sabres become relevant in the playoff conversation and has done well individually. Now he is looking for a big extension.

Matthews has been unconventional in taking shorter deals and betting on himself to earn more on the next one.

Now it seems as though Dahlin wants to follow that path. Reports had suggested that a Dahlin contract for 8-years had been almost done. Once Matthews signed a shorter deal Dahlin's camp reportedly started to seek a shorter deal.

With Auston Matthews making these shorter contracts work to his advantage it is sure to catch on with other players. Dahlin is likely just the first in a long line of players looking to follow suit.

One name that could be expected to do this is Steven Stamkos. If he takes shorter years it allows him flexibility in his later years. He can chase championships and keep collecting high-cap hits as long as his production continues.

Sam Reinhart and Mark Scheifele are two other candidates for this to work for. Both players have shown the ability to play at a high level.

Reinhart started to succeed when betting on himself more on a short-term deal in Florida so that might be the right move for him. Scheifele on the other hand is looking to compete for a cup. Short deals allow him to keep chasing those championships.