Drake Batherson contract talks stall with Ottawa Senators

Contract negotiations between the Ottawa Senators and winger Drake Batherson have reached a stalemate. Batherson, coming off a career-high 71-point season, is entering the final year of his current deal and is expected to become an unrestricted free agent next summer.

There is a looming September 15 deadline that impacts the potential length of a new agreement. Under the current Collective Bargaining Agreement, players re-signing with their original club are limited to a seven-year maximum, whereas an eight-year deal could be secured if signed before the deadline.

NHL Insider Marco D’Amico has identified the Montreal Canadiens as a potential landing spot for Batherson if Ottawa is unwilling to meet his salary demands, which are reportedly in the $10 million to $11 million range. Senators President of Hockey Operations Steve Staios confirmed that while dialogue is ongoing, the two sides remain far apart on terms.