The Ottawa Senators plan to offer captain Erik Karlsson a contract extension if he remains with the team this season, GM Pierre Durion told Postmedia's Bruce Garrioch.

While Karlsson is still in Ottawa following Monday's trade deadline, several teams were reportedly interested in acquiring the superstar blue-liner.

"Erik is a franchise player and we felt there was no franchise deal out there," Dorion told Garrioch.

Karlsson can sign an extension with the Senators as early as July 1, but the possibility remains that the team could consider trade options prior to that day, potentially at the June draft.

In 56 appearances this season, Karlsson has five goals and 37 assists.

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