Nathan MacKinnon Deal With Avs Close, Won’t Be in Single Digits

A few members of the NHL media, including Michael Russo of The Athletic, are reporting that Nathan MacKinnon has opened up about the status of his contract negotiations with the Colorado Avalanche. Russo writes that MacKinnon, “says his contract extension talks are close and will be done soon and won’t be single digits. He hopes it to be done by opening night or he’d prefer not to talk during season.”

Most fans knew that MacKinnon was going to get paid and after taking what turned out to be one of the most team-friendly deals in the NHL over the past six seasons, he’s looking to paid get his value in full. He joked that he doesn’t like the label of being the most underpaid player in the NHL, but also said that he believes this new contract will be fair, even though the number will be above $10 million per season. The assumption is that will come in higher than that. “It’s not going to be a single digit or anything, but it’ll be good for both sides and Denver’s the only place I want to be,” he said.

‘It will be fair. It’s not going to be a single digit’ – Nathan MacKinnon says contract extension is close https://t.co/0WrTImOzFl

— Daily Faceoff (@DailyFaceoff) September 15, 2022

MacKinnon added that he wants to be an “Av for life.” But also noted that if things don’t get worked out and a contract finalized before the start of this season, he will likely stop negotiating. He noted, “If it’s not done (before the season) I probably will stop talking to them until after the season.”

He said he understands that it’s a cliche response to the question about negotiating but he did firmly believe that it’s tough, and things get emotional, so you don’t want the lingering deal that isn’t done to hang over him or the team. “I’d like to get it done so it’s not a distraction.”

Expect an announcement in a couple of days? That’s what it sounds like.

Next: Jets Were Open to Trading Mark Scheifele, He Talks Odd Summer