The NHL community is watching two high-scoring forwards change the market scene soon: Winnipeg Jets' Kyle Connor and Los Angeles Kings' Adrian Kempe.

With both on the verge of new contracts, observers think Kempe's extension will significantly determine Connor's market value.

Kempe's Deal Could Set the Bar

NHL Trade Rumors: Will Kyle Connor Command a Bigger Contract NHL Trade Rumors: Will Kyle Connor Command a Bigger Contract
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On NHL Network's NHL Tonight, hosts Bill Pidto, Mike Rupp, and Stu Grimson talked about how Adrian Kempe's possible contract figures could affect Connor's future salary. As transcribed by NHL Rumors, Rupp stressed that though superstars such as Connor McDavid will end up altering the market, players such as Kempe can set the bar for similar players.

"And I think there's guys like Kyle Connor and his camp are watching this very, very closely. I mean, you look at what he's done, he got 97 points. You're saying, all right, I hope he gets 10, because if he gets 10, I mean, what does that mean for me? And the Winnipeg Jets are watching this situation too, very closely, because you want to obviously get him and get him at the right dollar, whatever you think that is."

That's the sentiment perpetuating the chain reaction typical in NHL contract talks. When one player establishes a price, others in the same performance range can use it as leverage in their own negotiations.

Connor's Stats Justify a Bigger Payday

Connor has provided top-level production for the Jets, including a nearly 100-point season. His offense, scoring ability, and speed make him a building block for the future in Winnipeg. To Kempe, who is also a building block for the Kings but has generated more modest production, Connor's resume arguably warrants a premium.

Stu Grimson supported this by observing that even if Kempe is not quite up to the $10 million level, a deal in the $9 million area might be a useful anchor in Connor's talks.

According to Grimson, Connor is worth a big jump over Kempe when it comes to AAV.

Teams Have to Work Through a Constrained Cap Environment

A determining aspect in both of these negotiations will be the salary cap. While the NHL stands to see a modest raise, teams are still being conservative about overspending. But as has been the case in recent years, a lot of those headlining free agents opt to re-sign with their existing team, particularly when those organizations present handsome long-term offers.

The Winnipeg Jets and the Los Angeles Kings will be eager not to lose their stars. Both players offer not only scoring but also leadership and marketability.

For the Jets, securing the 28-year-old Connor involves securing their top line for the foreseeable future. For the Kings, signing Kempe guarantees stability in their bid for a return to postseason relevance. According to Rink Royalty, agreeing with Kempe's salary will be a steal for Los Angeles.

Who Signs First Matters

What's certain: whoever signs first—Connor or Kempe may establish the tone for the other's contract. If Kempe signs an eight-figure AAV, Connor's team will most likely think high. If Kempe signs a lower contract, it may provide Winnipeg with more bargaining power to drive a team-friendly contract.