Predators' Ellis not at training camp; contract negotiations still stalled

The Nashville Predators began training camp on Thursday and were without one of their defensive stalwarts as restricted free agent defenseman Ryan Ellis is still in negotiations for a new contract.

Ellis' agent told rinksidereport.com via email that no progress has been made towards a deal. Predators general manager David Poile said that negotiations are ongoing and the sooner an agreement can be reached, the better.

Nashville invited blue-liner Brian Lee to training camp on a tryout, perhaps as a possible replacement for Ellis.

On-ice practice sessions start on Friday and the Predators open their six-game preseason schedule on Tuesday against the Tampa Bay Lightning.