Krug, Bruins yet to begin extension talks

The Boston Bruins and defenseman Torey Krug, who's set to become an unrestricted free agent next offseason, haven't begun talks on a potential contract extension, the blue-liner told Stephen Whyno of The Associated Press.

Krug became eligible to ink an extension on July 1, but the Bruins need to address the contracts of fellow defensemen Charlie McAvoy and Brandon Carlo. Both youngsters are currently restricted free agents and training camp is set to open next week.

The lack of extension negotiations doesn't mean Krug and the Bruins won't eventually find common ground. In July, general manager Don Sweeney said it would take a "unique opportunity" to trade away the defender, who's developed into a core piece for the team.

Additionally, following a loss in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final, Krug said he wants to stay in Boston forever.

Krug will have a $5.25-million cap hit in 2019-20, the final season of a four-year deal signed in 2016. He should be in line for a considerable raise whenever he puts pen to paper, as he ranks fifth among all defensemen with 163 points in 221 games since inking the contract.