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Report: Gagner wants $5.5 million in arbitration from Oilers

Phoenix Coyotes v Edmonton Oilers

EDMONTON, ALBERTA, CANADA. - April 10: Boyd Gordon #15 of the Phoenix Coyotes and Sam Gagner #89 of the Edmonton Oilers look for a loose puck at Rexall Place on April 10, 2013 in Edmonton, Canada. (Photo by Perry Nelson/Getty Images)

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Sam Gagner is looking to cash in on arbitration in a big way.

TSN’s Darren Dreger reports the Oilers center is seeking $5.5 million from the Oilers should the two sides wind up in front of an arbitrator. CBC’s Elliotte Friedman reports the Oilers are seeking $3.5 million. Gagner’s hearing is scheduled for Monday.

Before you go bonkers over a guy who has never cracked 50 points in a season asking for so much money, just know it’s all part of the process. Arbitration is like exaggerated negotiating and Gagner is setting his target higher than he’s likely worth.

That said, he’s still just 23 years-old so his prime seasons may be about to begin. He’s coming off a one-year deal that paid $3.2 million and is obviously seeking a raise. If an arbitrator looks at things like King Solomon, a one-year deal of $4.3 million could wind up being what happens.

In case you’re wondering, if Gagner got what he’s asking for that wouldn’t be close to a record. Nashville’s Shea Weber won a $7.5 million decision just two summers ago.