Flames' Gaudreau hopes to play with Monahan for 'next 10 years'

Slated to become restricted free agents at season's end, star forwards Johnny Gaudreau and Sean Monahan are set to receive significant raises on their current $925,000 salaries from the Calgary Flames.

While both are at least four years away from unrestricted free agency, Gaudreau is hopeful he can continue playing with Monahan for far longer.

"I could see us playing together for the next 10 years," Gaudreau said, per Sportsnet's Chris Johnston. "That's how much I like playing with that guy."

Admitting he and Monahan have talked about their contract situations in the past, the American couldn't hide his enthusiasm when discussing how much he enjoyed playing with the center.

"It's fun," said Gaudreau. "You try to get him the puck anywhere in the offensive zone. If he gets a point-blank shot, most of the time it's going in. He's got an unbelievable shot. It's so fun playing with him."

While the Flames won't be returning to the playoffs this season, the future looks bright with the young duo, who sit first and second in team scoring, after trailing only Jiri Hudler - since traded to the Florida Panthers - one year ago.