For $2,999,995, which represents a minor victory for the Calgary Flames.

Very minor.

Going into contract negotiations, Ian White wanted a salary of $3 million.  The Flames wanted to keep the number under $3 million.  On paper, at least the Flames won that battle.  In reality, White got the salary he wanted.  This seems very petty to me.  Obviously, White was happy enough with the contract to sign it, though.  And for $5 short of $3 million, I don’t see why he wouldn’t be.

Both sides also were able to avoid salary arbitration, which can be ugly.  White’s side gets to pick a number that they want to earn, and the Flames also pick a number.  White’s side gets to point out his assets, and then they have to sit there as his coaches and GM point out all the stuff he sucks at to try to bring the value of the deal down.  I would imagine it can get a little bit uncomfortable.

I’ve been a fan of White since he played for the Swift Current Broncos, and still follow him quite closely, despite his trade to the Flames.