3 reasons why Tsyplakov arbitration filing is not bad for Islanders

New York Islanders RFA Maxim Tsyplakov was among 11 players who filed for arbitration on Saturday. As was first reported here on Eyes on Isles, Tsyplakov and his agent filed ahead of the 5 pm deadline.

While an arbitration filing may sound like a bad thing, it’s not necessarily so. Some fans may be concerned about the situation, as some cases in the past have led to bad blood between players and teams.

So, it’s worth looking into three reasons why Maxim Tsyplakov’s arbitration filing is not a bad thing for the New York Islanders.

3 reasons why Tsyplakov arbitration filing is not a bad thing for New York Islanders

Removes drama from contract negotiations

One of the biggest issues surrounding RFA contract negotiations is drama. In some instances, players who forego arbitration end up dragging negotiations throughout the summer. As was the case last summer between the Bruins and netminder Jeremy Swayman, negotiations can last into the beginning of training camp.

Arbitration removes that needless drama from the equation. The Islanders and Tsyplakov will head to a hearing at some point in August. However, the two sides can agree on a deal beforehand, precluding the need for a hearing.

Let’s hope things go that route. The last thing fans want is any animosity between the Isles and Tsyplakov stemming from the hearing.

A neutral party decides contract value

The main reason why players and teams opt for arbitration is that they can’t agree on a contract value. That situation can lead to an impasse, leading to a deadlock between sides. In some instances, teams are forced to trade players’ rights, much like what the New York Rangers did with K’Andre Miller or the Vegas Golden Knights had to do with Nic Hague.

By going to arbitration, a neutral third party decides how much Tsyplakov should get. The Isles will present their case as to what they believe Tsyplakov is worth. Tsyplakov and his agent will present theirs.

The arbitration generally chooses some sort of middle ground. Sometimes, arbitrators side with one party, though that’s not always the case.

This situation is where bad blood could brew. The club must make a compelling case why the player isn’t worth what they want. Meanwhile, the player must essentially convince the arbitrator that the club is lowballing them.

If not handled correctly, the situation could lead to so much animosity that a trade may be the only solution. Mathieu Darche will be hard-pressed to settle this matter without it getting out of hand.

Arbitration provides certainty, one way or another

The biggest benefit from salary arbitration is that it provides certainty. If the two sides heed the decision, they can sign a one or two-year deal.

Otherwise, the club can pass on the arbitrator’s ruling, instantly making the player a UFA. In this particular situation, the New York Islanders could walk away, as it was Tsyplakov who filed, not the Isles.

Had the Isles filed for arbitration, the decision would be binding on the team.

Again, the hope is that the two sides can agree on a deal before heading into the hearing. But if the situation does go to a hearing, then there will be a resolution to Maxim Tsyplakov’s next contract, one way or another.