John-Michael Liles and Brett McLean could soon face off against the Avalanche over how much they should be paid.
The players Wednesday elected for salary arbitration. Under terms of the NHL’s collective bargaining agreement, they have until July 20 to continue to work out a contract with the Avs; otherwise, their cases will be heard by an arbitrator between that date and Aug. 4 in Toronto.
Both players made the NHL’s minimum salary of $450,000 in 2005-06. Liles, a member of the 2006 U.S. Olympic team, scored 49 points (14 goals) in 82 games for the Avs last season.
The Avalanche currently is roughly $7 million under the NHL’s salary cap of $44 million, with seven players from last year’s roster still unsigned (including unrestricted free agent Jim Dowd). Based on Liles’ production last season – in which he was a first-team all-rookie member – he could be awarded as much as $2 million per year on a new contract.
In either case, whichever side prevails in the arbitration hearing – if it goes that far – will be bound by a two-year agreement.
McLean, 27, posted nine goals and 40 points in 82 games last season.
Also unsigned with the Avalanche is Marek Svatos, who tied with Joe Sakic for the team scoring lead last season (32), despite playing 21 fewer games.
Adrian Dater can be reached at 303-820-5454 or adater@denverpost.com.
