“The Canucks really liked what he did last season for them. His role and responsibilities have increased.” Pagnotta said.
He added, “They haven’t really gotten to the nitty-gritty of negotiations just yet. I think there’s a little bit of worry that if he replicates what he did last season, or comes close to it or surpasses it, it’s gonna cost them too much. He’s at $1.5 million (AAV). If he puts up those numbers again, he’s at least doubling (his annual salary), and I think that’s a little bit of a concern from the Canuck side of things.
There have been some conversations. Yeah, they’re talking, but there’s a difference between talking and there’s a difference between negotiating and they’re not at that second stage yet.”