Flames GM expects Tkachuk to sign before training camp

Calgary Flames general manager Brad Treliving said on Friday that he expects restricted free agent Matthew Tkachuk to sign a new contract prior to training camp, according to Aaron Vickers of NHL.com.

"That's been our expectation, our hope, our goal," Treliving said. "That's what we're working toward. I know that's what Matthew wants as well. We've got to keep working away at it and get to the point where we can get a deal done that works for everybody. That's certainly our goal. Nothing has changed in that regard."

Tkachuk is one of several high-profile RFA's currently without a contract for next season. The respective agents for the young superstars are reportedly waiting for Toronto Maple Leafs winger Mitch Marner to sign first and set the market.

The Flames hold $7.7 million in available cap space, which may not be enough to meet Tkachuk's demands. Calgary also needs to sign fellow RFA Andrew Mangiapane.

"In the cap world, there's only so many dollars to go around," Treliving said. "We've got good young players that we think are right in the prime or starting the prime of their careers. Matthew has established himself as a top-end player, top-end young player just three years into his career. You're trying to get them looked after and fit into the course of your overall team structure."

Since being drafted sixth overall in 2016, Tkachuk has become a franchise player for the Flames. He serves as an assistant captain at 21 years old, and in 2018-19, Tkachuk set career highs with 34 goals and 77 points in 80 games, leading Calgary to a first-place finish in the Pacific Division.