Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun reports negotiations between the Ottawa Senators and defenseman Erik Karlsson could endure for several weeks or even into this summer. At this point, the two sides haven’t even planned to sit down and talk yet.

“People in Ottawa should be prepared for this to take until training camp,” one league executive told Garrioch. “It could happen if both sides decide to dig in their heels on this one.”

“It’s going to get done and Erik Karlsson isn’t going to go anywhere,” the exec added. “Both sides will try to use their leverage. There will be pressure points but sooner or later he’s going to sign.”

The Senators are hoping to secure Karlsson for an annual figure in the $5-million range. While the Karlsson’s camp will ask for upwards of $6 million.


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