Havlat working on deal

Blackhawks trying to sign Havlat
TheFourthPeriod.com

The Blackhawks are involved in contract negotiations with Martin Havlat's agent, hoping they can sign the star winger to a new deal, reports the Chicago Sun-Times.

Hawks GM Dale Tallon and Havlat's agent, Allan Walsh, started discussions last week and it's possible a deal could be reached in the near future.

"While nobody can predict the future, there appears to be mutual interest in a long-term deal," Walsh told the Ottawa Sun last Sunday. "We've started working on it and from (Havlat's) perspective, he loves the fans, the organization and the city. It's probably one of the best places in the entire league to play. We are hopeful and excited at the prospect of getting a deal done soon."

Havlat's really enjoyed his time with the Blackhawks this season, his first healthy season in two years.

"I'm feeling much better, and I've got my confidence back," Havlat told the Sun-Times.

"This year is completely different than the two previous ones. It's much more relaxed, and we've got one of the youngest teams in the league. I'm one of the older guys, and it had always been the opposite way before. Chemistry is better in the dressing room and on the ice. It's much more fun."

Havlat, who is in the final season of a three-year, $18 million deal, will likely have to sign for a lesser annual salary if he wants to stay in Chicago.

The Montreal Canadiens have shown a serious interest in Havlat this season, but the Blackhawks will not move him.

If Havlat hits the open market as an unrestricted free agent July 1, the Habs will likely pursue him.