The Florida Panthers and veteran defenseman Radko Gudas are currently in intense negotiations to finalize a contract extension before the NHL free agency market officially opens, according to Pierre LeBrun of TSN.
Both sides are reportedly "grinding away" in an effort to reach an agreement that keeps the blueliner in South Florida. Per LeBrun, if a deal is successfully reached, it is expected to be a long-term arrangement. This specific structure would likely be utilized to assist the Panthers with salary cap management by lowering the annual average value (AAV) of the contract over a longer duration.
Gudas has been a staple of the Panthers' defensive unit, and the organization is making a push to secure his services before he has the opportunity to test the open market. Negotiations remain ongoing as the deadline for the start of free agency approaches.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Sources & Original Reporting
