BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) – Sabres star center Jack Eichel is focused on taking on a larger leadership role, and not concerning himself with contract talks – even it means waiting until next year to sign a new deal.
“I have no problem playing the season out and just trying to earn whatever,” Eichel said Tuesday. “We know where we stand. We know where the Sabres stand. If it doesn’t happen, it doesn’t happen.”
Eichel also reiterated his commitment to staying in Buffalo on a long-term basis. He spoke after taking part in his first on-ice session with numerous teammates in Buffalo a little over a week before the Sabres open training camp.
The 20-year-old is entering the final season of his three-year rookie contract, and in line for what is projected to be a lucrative contract extension.
A person with direct knowledge of talks told The Associated Press last month that both sides have discussed a contract spanning an NHL-maximum eight seasons . The same person told The AP on Tuesday that negotiations haven’t stopped since the two sides formally opened talks in June. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because negotiations have been private.