Report: Kruger waiting for Blackhawks to clear cap space for long-term deal

It looks like Marcus Kruger is going to get paid for several years to remain a member of the Chicago Blackhawks; he'll just have to remain patient to ensure it happens.

In late June, it was reported Kruger and the Blackhawks were closing in on a deal, and new reports surfaced Friday courtesy of ESPN's Scott Powers that said Kruger is merely waiting for Chicago to clear cap space so the two parties can sign a long-term contract extension.

Kruger, a key to the Blackhawks special teams unit, is just 25 years old and led the team in penalty kill ice time, while adding 17 points in 81 games.

The restricted free agent recently completed a two-year, $2.65-million contract.