The Arizona Coyotes have added another prospect to their cupboard, signing Nathan Schnarr to his entry-level contract. Though the Coyotes are currently sitting at their 50-contract limit, Schnarr will not count towards that total given that he is still just 19 and playing in junior for the Guelph Storm of the OHL.
Schnarr was a third-round pick of the Coyotes in 2017, and has taken over the offensive load for Guelph this year. The 6’3″ center was given more responsibility and has excelled, registering 40 points in his first 26 games and already surpassing his total from last season. Though he isn’t among the Coyotes very top prospects, he has developed well and will certainly fit into their minor league system next season.
This deal though brings up the fact that Arizona does sit at that 50-contract limit, which will drastically limit their ability to sign any college or European free agents in the spring. The team is going to have to clear some contracts over the next few months or be left with very little leverage in trade negotiations. This is one of the byproducts of being a contract graveyard, holding onto the likes of Dave Bolland and Marian Hossa despite them already being retired.