Chicago extends forwards as playoffs loom

[solas 1,953]

With the first games of the wildcard round being played, one would think most of the VHL’s news would be focused on the beginning of the playoffs.  But part of the spotlight has been captured, as the Chicago Phoenix have made a big statement for the future by signing four of their pending free agents to contract extensions.  In order of announcement: a three-year deal for captain Christian Mingle (with a mutual option in the third year), another three-year deal for rookie Darius Marimoto, a one-year deal for team scoring leader Kyl Oferson, and a five-year extension for alternate captain Lee Xin.  It’s a big deal for the Phoenix, who before today had nine out of the team’s sixteen rostered players in the final year of their contract this season.  It’s a big sign of faith in the team and the project from the players, especially from Xin who now won’t be entering free agency for the rest of his career.

 

And at the same time, it’s also a limitation of distractions for Chicago as they head into the playoffs as the number one seed in the North American Conference.  Now, they won’t have nearly as many questions about the future of their star players as the Phoenix try to reach the top of the mountain.  Can they do it?  Only time will tell.