Free Agent Hits: Kessel, Sedin’s, Stepan and Thomas

Mark Easson

11 years ago

John Shannon: Damien Cox saying that the Maple Leafs want a deal with Phil Kessel done before the start of the season. Canucks wanting to get the Sedin’s locked up too.

Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: Leafs GM Dave Nonis will now try to sign Phil Kessel to a contract extension before the start of the season. Kessel has said he doesn’t want to talk contract during the season. The Leafs could always re-sign him after the season if they can’t work out a deal before Tuesday. Nonis hopes to have at least one serious negotiation meeting with Kessel’s agent, Wade Arnott, before Monday. There has been little negotiation so far. It could take an eight year deal at between $60 and $64 million.

Steve Zipay: The Rangers offered the deal Derek Stepan signed on Monday. He called them on Wednesday to say he would accept it. Andrew Gross: Stepan worked out this summer in Minnesota and had been working out with a Wisconsin team. He said he’s “not that far off.”

Bob McKenzie: Stepan will get $2.3 million this year and $3.85 million next year. More money in the second year will mean he would require a higher qualifying offer. Arbitration eligible when his deal expires.