William Karlsson is seeking a significant raise from the Golden Knights following his career season.
The restricted free-agent center is asking for $6.5 million annually in salary arbitration, according to Sportsnet in Canada. The Knights countered with an offer of $3.5 million annually.
The team has the option of selecting a one- or two-year deal for Karlsson in arbitration. The two sides can continue to negotiate a contract before Saturday’s hearing in Toronto.
Karlsson made $1 million last season when he finished third in the NHL with 43 goals. The 25-year-old won the Lady Byng Trophy as the league’s most gentlemanly player and was 10th in the voting for the MVP award.