Pierre LeBrun Gives An Ivan Provorov Update

NHL Insider Pierre LeBrun gave an Ivan Provorov update yesterday that will get people talking.

In an article released late last night, LeBrun says that the 28-year-old Russian defenseman's agent Mark Gandler, and GM Don Waddell have had contract talks, and plan to talk again later.

LeBrun says, "The pending unrestricted free agent is very open to signing an extension with Columbus. At least at the outset of these talks, there’s a mutual desire to see if there’s a way to get something done."

It should be noted that Ivan Provorov's younger brother Vladimir committed to playing college hockey at The Ohio State University just last month.

LeBrun also thinks Provorov will be seeking a max extension (8 years) and looking for a raise. Provorov currently makes $6,750,000 a season, but Columbus is only paying him $4,725,000 thanks to 30% of the contract being retained by the Los Angeles Kings.

March 7th will be a huge day for both Columbus and Provorov as that is the NHL's trade deadline. If the CBJ can't work something out, look for Provorov to be traded, most likely to a contender and for a first-round pick. Getting a first-round pick in return would be ideal for Waddell, but it sounds like if they can work out a good deal, he could be wearing Union Blue for another bunch of years.

Would Provorov take a little more money for less term? The Jackets have a few prospects that will be ready in a couple of years. Does Waddell try to keep him around for veteran leadership, or ship him off for future picks?

Don Waddell has plenty of options, but if Pierre LeBrun is right, the Jackets may be looking to lock him up long-term.

What's Next - The Blue Jackets travel to Toronto to play the Maple Leafs on Wednesday night.

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