Columbus Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell had hoped to finalize a contract extension for restricted free agent center Adam Fantilli before training camp, but as the deadline approaches, negotiations have stalled. Fantilli seeks a deal comparable to those of Leo Carlsson and Connor Bedard, who signed lucrative extensions earlier this summer. With approximately $12.65MM in cap space, the Blue Jackets face challenges in accommodating Fantilli’s demands while also considering upcoming extensions for Zach Werenski and Kirill Marchenko. As training camp begins, both sides must find common ground to secure a deal.
