Ottawa Senators' GM Bryan Murray prioritising deal with defenseman Erik Karlsson -NHL offseason Update
With rumours beginning to spread around the National Hockey League (NHL) that top level defenseman, Erik Karlsson, might be testing the free agency market when July 1, 2012, comes but Ottawa Senators’ general manager, Bryan Murray, has termed signing the
player a priority for the club.
According to Murray, there is no chance that the team will not be re-signing their All-Star defenseman, who is set to be a restricted free agent once his three-year, $2.625 million entry-level deal comes to an end next month.
But with that, Murray also did not rule out the fact that Karlsson could be in negotiations with other teams.
“It’s not a pressure point for us,” Murray said. “I’m not saying something wouldn’t happen with another club, but I can’t imagine that they would think we wouldn’t match, no matter what. We’re going to negotiate on the basis we have time, we will get it
done. It sounds like both parties want to get it done. It’s just a matter of getting the right number.”
Thursday is the day that will allow restricted free agents around the league to receive offer sheets from various team’s, who have interest in them, and looking at Karlsson, he is bound to get a number of them, some which he might not be able to refuse.
With the awards ceremony also fast approaching in Las Vegas, Murray also termed it to be a time that might have him discussing Karlsson’s future.
“I believe his people are going to be in Vegas and I’m hoping that they’ll buy me a coffee,” said Murray. “Maybe we can sit down and talk one of the mornings before the awards ceremony.”
Karlsson, a 15th overall pick during round-one of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, has proved to be invaluable to the Ottawa Senators and was a major contributor last season as he helped take them to the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
In 81 games, Karlsson had 78 points (19 goals, 59 assists) along with 42 minutes in the penalty box, making him one of the best in the league for sure.
Updates on the situation can be expected in the upcoming days.
Tags: