While there has been documented movement from Ryan Johansen's camp towards a shorter-term deal with the Blue Jackets, the two sides remain far apart in negotiations.
As recently as last week Jarmo Kekalainen and Johansen's camp differed severely in terms of salary to the tune of $3 million per season.
That has apparently left a bad taste in the mouth of both parties, and a big gap remains to be closed before camp opens up in about a month.
Has there been a thaw in contract negotiations between #CBJ and Ryan Johansen? No. Not at all. Chilly as ever. One month till camp opens.
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) August 18, 2014I've said all along I think Kekalainen will ultimately move in dollars and pay more than he wants in order to get Johansen signed to a short-term deal, and I still hold that belief.
I think this is the last ditch effort form both sides to get the deal they want. Come training camp I expect Johansen to be there, but as the days go on doubt will start to creep into everyone's mind.
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