Cody Eakin, a restricted free agent, is still without a contract in Dallas and Dallas GM Jim Nill said Friday that little progress has been made toward a new deal, according to Mark Stepneski of NHL.com.

Eakin, a restricted free agent, is still without a contract in Dallas and Dallas GM Jim Nill said Friday that little progress has been made toward a new deal, according to Mark Stepneski of NHL.com.

Analysis:

Eakin figures to get a good role on the Stars third line and a deal is likely to get worked out before opening night, but the time frame is worrisome as far as Eakin getting to camp on time. As Nill points out, Eakin can't play for a few days after a deal is signed because he'll still have to sort out immigration after the deal is put in place. Could be an issue for the team, but a late contract signing isn't likely to effect Eakin's fantasy value.