Anaheim Ducks GM Bob Murray knows a new contract for restricted free agent forward Bobby Ryan is on the horizon, he just doesn't know how long it takes to get one ironed out.
Murray and Ryan's agents, Mark Guy and Don Meehan, have been going back and forth for months.
The Ducks have offered five-year and four-year deals to Ryan, who is believed to be looking for a three-year agreement.
Earlier this week, Ryan shot down the suggestion that he wants out of Anaheim.
"I don't want a trade," Ryan told the Orange County Register on Monday. "I'm not asking for a trade. I want to be here in Anaheim. This is where I want to be."
Ryan, 23, wants to be with the team for the start of training camp, which begins in a few weeks.
"I don't want people to think I'm holding out or I'm going to hold out," he said. "That's not the case. We're just trying to find something that works for both sides right now."
The two sides will continue their talks as the days progress. It remains unclear as to when a new contract will be reached, though several teams are taking their time locking up some of their top RFAs.
The Montreal Canadiens and goalie Carey Price, and the Colorado Avalanche and forward Peter Mueller, for example, are also working on new deals.
Ryan expects a deal before camp and is believed to be looking for $5 million per season.
Files from:
Orange County Register
