Report: Senators, Tkachuk progressing toward new contract

It seems the Ottawa Senators and restricted free-agent forward Brady Tkachuk are progressing in the right direction regarding a new contract.

The Senators hope to agree on a long-term deal with Tkachuk before training camp begins on Sept. 22, according to the Ottawa Sun's Bruce Garrioch.

Tkachuk's camp and Ottawa reportedly discussed a new contract as late as last Friday and will likely continue negotiating this week. There hasn't been any animosity between the two sides throughout the talks, adds Garrioch.

General manager Pierre Dorion said Friday the sides have held "productive discussions," per The Athletics' Ian Mendes.

The Senators drafted Tkachuk fourth overall in 2018. The 21-year-old winger posted 36 points across 56 contests last season, which translates to 53 points over an 82-game campaign.

Ottawa is looking to name a captain for the 2021-22 season. Tkachuk and Thomas Chabot are among the leading candidates for the honor.

Tkachuk isn't the only restricted free agent left on the Senators' roster, as the club will also have to decide on Logan Brown. The 23-year-old reportedly hasn't signed his qualifying offer, and both sides agree the forward could use a change of scenery.