Elliote Friedman was talking with on the Fan960 this morn and really thinks the Flames can get a deal done with Russell. He mentioned Russell likes playing for the Flames and that in itself is a positive starter for negotiations.
The issue for Russell is judging the upcoming free agent market and what he and his agent think they can get. Friedman mentioned an unamed player who said he was a nervous guy and was afraid of getting screwed over in the free agent market and always ended up taking less money for security. Same player had former teammates who came to him afterwards saying they wished they did what he did.
Friedman also made a point of saying "Don't #### with happiness". By that me mentioned that if you're happy with your work situation, sometimes a change for more dollars doesn't always equate a better working situation. If you're going to leave it better be for significant more dollars.
http://www.sportsnet.ca/960/boomer-m...e-right-thing/