July 14--One free agent remains in a holding pattern while another is nearing a decision as the Blackhawks' 2015-16 roster takes shape.
Restricted free-agent center Marcus Kruger continues to wait for the Hawks to clear salary-cap space before negotiations on a new deal resume. Kruger decided not to file for salary arbitration with the hope of landing a longer-term deal, but his agent, J.P. Barry, said Monday that "nothing (is) looming" and that Kruger is "waiting for the team to be ready to re-engage on exploring a longer term."
That re-engagement is likely to come after general manager Stan Bowman makes a move or two to free more space under the $71.4 million cap. Bowman likely will have to make another trade after previously sending forwards Brandon Saad and Patrick Sharp packing in cap-related transactions.
Unrestricted free agent Johnny Oduya also has been waiting for the Hawks to have cap space, but after the acquisition of fellow left-handed-shooting defenseman Trevor Daley in the Sharp trade, Oduya might sign elsewhere.
Oduya's agent, Don Meehan, said Monday that his client "should be close to a decision by (Tuesday)." Unless Bowman makes another trade before then or comes up with some creative cap management, Oduya is unlikely to re-sign with the Hawks. The Sabres reportedly have expressed interest in Oduya.
ckuc@tribpub.com
