That seems to be what Jake Gardiner is facing this summer.
Despite being one of the best players — not just defencemen, but best overall player — on the free-agent market with the ability to cash in like has never has before, Gardiner remains unsigned with training camps only a few weeks away.
That is notable. The talented puck-mover is clearly waiting for something to move before he does, and the Maple Leafs seem pretty likely to be it.
Obviously, there are a few hold-ups here. Gardiner would be signed already if there weren’t.