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With training camp looming, there’s still RFAs

Chicago Blackhawks v New York Rangers

Marcus Kruger

Getty Images

The start of training camp is just around the corner, but any player that’s still a restricted free agent is likely to hold out unless he agrees to terms ahead of time. While it’s still entirely possible that every noteworthy RFA will sign before that happens, the fact remains that there’s still some unresolved cases.

In total there are seven remaining RFAs, per General Fanager: forwards Brock Nelson (NYI), Freddie Hamilton (COL), John Albert (WPG), Jonathan Huberdeau (FLA), Marcus Kruger (CHI), Micheal Ferland (CGY) and defenseman Stefan Elliott (COL).

Of them, Huberdeau is arguably the highest profile player as he was taken with the 2011 third overall pick and won the Calder Trophy in 2013. He’s reportedly come to an agreement with the Florida Panthers as far as term goes, but the two sides are still negotiating when it comes to compensation, per the Miami Herald’s George Richards. The team is confident this matter will be settled ahead of training camp.

There’s less to go on when it comes to Nelson. After scoring 20 goals and 42 points in 82 games last season, it seems reasonable to assume that the 23-year-old is looking for a significant payday after completing his entry-level contract. The Islanders have had an offer on the table for him for weeks, per Newsday’s Arthur Staple, but beyond that news regarding his situation has been scarce.

The other player on that list that has already spent a substantial amount of time in the NHL is Marcus Kruger. His case is a bit different as Chicago’s cap situation has limited its ability to negotiate with the 25-year-old.

Kruger, who completed a two-year, $2.65 million deal, made it clear that he wants to re-sign with the Blackhawks and they’ve been patient with Chicago given its cap issues. At this point though, something has to give soon.

Of course the same could be said for all of those cases.

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