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Sens GM says they’re ‘definitely going to try to keep’ Bobby Ryan

Craig Anderson, Kyle Turris, Bobby Ryan, Patrick Wiercioch

Ottawa Senators goalie Craig Anderson (41) celebrates with teammates center Kyle Turris (7), right wing Bobby Ryan (6) and defenseman Patrick Wiercioch (46) after an NHL hockey game against the Washington Capitals, Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2014, in Washington. The Senators won 2-0. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

AP

The Ottawa Senators were able to get Clarke MacArthur locked up to a five-year deal on Tuesday and now their attention will have to turn towards star forward Bobby Ryan.

Ryan is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent next summer and Senators GM Bryan Murray knows they’d be better off keeping him in the fold as he told the Senators’ website on Wednesday.

“I think all of these players that are going into their last year around the League, some of them will sign early because of the situation and the contract they’re getting. Other people will wait a little bit,” Murray said. “We’ve talked to Bobby at length through his agents. I believe it will take until he comes to Ottawa for training camp to continue the discussions. He’s one of the next guys we’re definitely going to try to keep here.”

Ryan, 27, is coming off his first season in Ottawa after being acquired from the Anaheim Ducks. In 70 games he had 23 goals and 48 points - his worst full season in since entering the NHL. After four straight 30+ goal seasons with the Ducks, adjusting to life in Ottawa was apparently a bit tricky.

With Ryan entering the final year of his deal, a big performance would go a long way to helping boost any offers he might get - whether they’re from the Sens or not.

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