The Coyotes have rapidly progressed in contract talks with defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson, according to multiple sources with knowledge of the situation. Ekman-Larsson is entering the final year of a six-year, $33 million deal.
Multiple sources have confirmed to The Republic that contract discussions have advanced so far that the Coyotes are informing inquiring teams that Ekman-Larsson is not available to be traded.
Ekman-Larsson, who will turn 27 in July, is not eligible to sign a contract extension until July 1, the start of free agency. He is part of a trio of star defensemen whose contracts expire after the 2019 season, joining Erik Karlsson (Ottawa Senators) and Drew Doughty (Los Angeles Kings).