Torey Krug says contract talks with Bruins have been 'nonexistent' this summer

The Boston Bruins are seemingly in no rush to lock up premier defensemen Torey Krug to a new contract as he approaches the final season of his four-year, $21-million contract.

This is likely due to the fact that Boston has two restricted free agent defenseman, Charlie McAvoy and Brandon Carlo, still unsigned almost a week into September.

"I understand we have two guys who need to be signed, and that can have big effects on our NHL salary cap situation moving forward, and our boss has to deal with that," Krug told Mike Zeisberger of NHL.com. "Of course I wish there was dialogue and some sort of call or something like that. It's just nonexistent.

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Krug led Boston’s defence in points last season, racking up six goals and 47 assists in 64 regular season games. In a lengthy Stanley Cup Playoff run, Krug was second amongst NHL defensemen with 18 points in 24 games. He’s been eligible to sign a contract extension since July 1st and is set to become an unrestricted free agent come July 1, 2020 without a new deal.

The silence isn’t killing Krug, as he’s confident that his tenure with the B’s has proved his worth. The 28-year-old was an undrafted college standout who worked his way into the heart of the team in 2012.

"I've put together a resume I'm very comfortable with and happy about. And trust me, I'm not saying I feel disrespected or anything. It's just part of the situation."

Krug was asked by ESPN’s Emily Kaplan if he would consider taking less money on his next contract to stay in Boston, and his answer proves the loyalty he feels to the Bruins.

"It's something that I've talked about with my family and my agent. It's something I'm interested in. How much less — that's a question that will be answered at a certain time.

Heading into the final year of his contract while lacking any insight on what’s next will only add more incentive for Krug to prove his worth.

"It's nothing that will affect me personally in how I play," he added via NHL.com. "If anything, it's just added fuel to the fire.”

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