Sakic says length of MacKinnon contract 'up in the air'

The Colorado Avalanche retained the rights of former No. 1 overall pick Nathan MacKinnon by giving him a qualifying offer Monday, and general manager Joe Sakic assured that the Calder Trophy winner "isn't going anywhere."

Though a new deal is expected, the potential contract length of a new deal is "up in the air," Sakic told Mike Chambers of the Denver Post, adding that he has already met with MacKinnon's representatives.

If the two parties opt for a shorter "bridge" contract, the Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia native would become a restricted free agent once again at the end of his next contract.

MacKinnon bounced back following a difficult sophomore campaign with 21 goals and 31 assists in 72 games this past season. He recorded 63 points in his rookie season.

Other restricted free agents to receive qualifying offers from the Avalanche on Monday included defenseman Tyson Barrie, goaltender Calvin Pickard, and forward Mikhail Grigorenko.