Ottawa Senators general manager Pierre Dorion is still hoping to trade forward Alex DeBrincat this summer, but DeBrincat is by no means making his job easier as no team would be willing to give him the contract he wants.
In recent days, the Ottawa Sun newspaper reported that the hockey player’s agent, Jeff Jackson, was given permission to negotiate with other teams, but the transaction plans fell through. The former Chicago Blackhawks have been involved in talks for three weeks after turning down an eight-year offer from the Sens. Clubs have expressed interest in signing the man, who has 40 or more career goals in two seasons, but talks ended as Jackson and his protégé failed to reach a satisfactory agreement.
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“The level of interest varies. The teams are calling and we’re getting closer to a deal. “I give them permission to talk to the player afterwards and sometimes they’re not willing to accept the term or the price,” Dorion told the local newspaper. He’s 25 years old and he’s aiming for something specific. I can talk about it as we own his rights.”
DeBrincat is eligible for salary arbitration this year and Ottawa wants to pay less than the $9 million he could make; Instead, the club is targeting $7.65 million. The forward recorded 27 goals and 39 assists for 66 points in 82 games last season.
Harmonious return
Additionally, on Tuesday, the Ottawa team rehired defenseman Travis Hamonic, who is set to earn a combined $2.2 million over the next two seasons.
The 32-year-old veteran scored 21 points in 75 games last season.
“Travis is a key element within our group. With a work ethic and sense of responsibility, fearlessness and a level of determination that seems to be surpassed every time he steps on the ice, he regularly sets a good example for our young players. He’s a leader with a strong personality and we’re excited to have him back,” Dorion told NHL.com.