The Ottawa Senators and Cody Ceci appear to be working towards bridging the gap.
The club is believed to be discussing a two-year contract with the restricted free-agent defenseman's agent, according to Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun.
Speaking after the signing of forward Mike Hoffman earlier Wednesday, Senators general manager Pierre Dorion indicated the two sides have indeed been in contact, making assurances a deal will be reached prior to the start of the regular season.
Ceci - a right-handed 22-year-old defenseman - scored 10 goals and added 16 assists in 75 games for the Senators last season, the last under his entry-level contract.
He also helped Canada win gold at the 2016 IIHF World Championship, with his inclusion on the roster speaking to his ability to play and perform at a high level.
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