Patience is a virtue. Alexander Wennberg is learning that the hard way.
After his breakout year with the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Swedish forward is without a contract for the 2017-18 season. While there is still time until the season starts, the clock is beginning to tick.
"Eventually it's going to work out," Wennberg said during the NHL's European Player Media Tour. "Even though I have to wait a little longer than expected, that's a part of it. But you can't really let that get to your head. Right now, I'm focusing on training and focusing on [this] season and it's going to work out. Time will tell. I'm not too stressed out about it either."
On top of a great attitude, Wennberg put up 59 points last year. His career year had great timing and only adds more intrigue to his contract negotiations. Both sides have plenty of options for a contract. The feeling out period is still in progress.
"There's always different ways to discuss," he said. "Long-term, short-term. But right now, we're just trying to feel each other out a little bit and see what the other [side] wants. Obviously long-term is a good option, but we'll have to wait and see."
The summer is slowly coming to a close. The player and team have both not talked about the situation past a cursory level. No news may actually be good news.
