Quick update on Derek Stepan’s contract negotiations with the New York Rangers:
“A deal is not imminent and obviously Derek will not report (to camp) without a contract,” Stepan’s agent, Matt Oates, told The New York Post.
From Post reporter Larry Brooks:
Stepan is believed seeking a five- or six-year deal in the neighborhood of $5 million per while the Rangers are believed offering a two-year contract worth between $2.75-and-$3 million a year.
Stepan, 23, has been very good in his first three seasons in the NHL, compiling 140 points in 212 games; however, the Rangers appear to be holding steady on demanding a bridge contract for the restricted free agent with no arbitration rights.
“I am not going to give a long-term contract at this stage and he is a good player, a smart player, a good team guy,” Rangers general manager Glen Sather told Edmonton’s Team 1260 in August. “There is certainly nothing wrong with him, but you need to wait a little while before you get the big bucks.”