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“Mack is the ultimate team guy, and once the season starts he does not want to be a distraction, and doesn’t want to be dealing with this in the media room,” his agent/uncle Matthew Ebbs told Sportsnet from his law firm in Ottawa.

“That’s why our preference is if we can get something done before the season, that’s definitely where our head is at.

“If we can’t, we’re not saying we won’t have any discussions, but we’d prefer to just leave it so there are no team distractions after Oct. 13.”

“I said, ‘you have to at least meet Darryl (Sutter), and it was all great,” said Ebbs.

“I don’t have to mince words, Brad, and the city, and his teammates and everyone and everything has been phenomenal.

“He sees this trade as a blessing in disguise.

“It is just about the numbers at this point. We have a range in mind, and I think we’ve addressed that very clearly, so I certainly think, to a certain extent, the ball is in their court.”

“It just comes down to Brad and the organization and our side coming down to terms on a deal that’s good for both sides,” said Weegar, whose final year of his current deal has a $3.25 million AAV.

“I want a long-term deal here. Being here, the guys have been great and the city is very warm and welcoming.

“(Nazem) Kadri was a big free agent signing — he chose to come here before he even knew the city.

“My best buddy Huby, I’d love to spend another five, six, seven, eight years here with him.

“I believe he’s the kind of guy who can take you deep, same with Naz.

“I think all the pieces are here to be a successful team for years to come.”