[sureLoss]

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/world...-nhl-contract/

As the World Cup of Hockey announced its jersey sponsorships and Fan Village location on Wednesday, one of its competitors confirmed his intention to play.

There’s some question about unsigned free agents — Johnny Gaudreau, Sean Monahan and Jacob Trouba, for example — and whether or not they will compete without new contracts. According to a couple of sources, Gaudreau confirmed he will do so earlier this week.

Players can purchase extra insurance to cover themselves and it’s believed he did so.

Adding an extra layer to the story, word is the Calgary Flames were told Gaudreau does not wish to negotiate after his World Cup arrival, scheduled for Sept. 4, preferring to concentrate on the games. That moratorium would last for the duration of the event, which would be Oct. 1 if the final goes a full three games.

Gaudreau’s agent, Lewis Gross, declined to comment. Neither would Flames GM Brad Treliving.

In theory, that puts pressure on Calgary to get something done beforehand, since the NHL season opens Oct. 12. But the Flames have been consistent in their belief a deal will close and that apparently hasn’t changed.