BUZZ: Staal Contract Talks

There's been a lot buzz around Jordan Staal's contract extension talks with the Penguins lately and it probably has alot to do with how well he's been playing; not to mention the fact that his agent, Paul Krepelka, was in town earlier this week (although it's been reported to have been to check in on another of his clients, Ryan Whitney, but that hasn't stopped the media from speculating he's had informal talks with Penguins GM, Ray Shero in the press box during the game against the Wild on Tuesday).

When Shero recently talked to the press about Staal's extension, he said that he is "open to a lot of different things" as far as negotiating is concerned which also includes a short-term deal if that's what he would prefer; however, Shero added, "they've got to give (him) something" if this would be what he ultimately wants. This sounds to me as though it is completely up to Staal as to whether or not he will remain in Pittsburgh after this season which I view as a good thing and from what I've read, I'm more to believe that Staal views it as a good thing too even if it is short-term. When asked about a specific deadline Shero replied, "It seems sensible that after the trade deadline (March 4), that's about it."

And when it comes to specifics of a deal, TIOPS recently posted information from their sources (and I didn't even have to pay for it, so take it for what it's worth):

The parameters of an extension for Jordan Staal is centering around a three to four year deal. Some believe a deal will be struck before the new year. The two sides are expected to pickup negotiations this week when Staal's agent will be in town. A source close to the negotiations has indicated the Penguins currently have a four year offer on the table believed to be in the range of $12.75M - $13.25M. The current offer would pay Jordan Staal $5 million annually in the 4th year of the deal according to a source. The Penguins are open to a longer deal but to this point Staal’s representatives still appear set on a shorter term deal than what Crosby and Malkin signed for. I'm hearing Staal's representatives prefer a three year deal.