Chayka: Coyotes will do whatever possible to re-sign Ekman-Larsson

The Arizona Coyotes want to make it very difficult for Oliver Ekman-Larsson to walk away from the desert.

Following a report last month that indicated the two sides are discussing an eight-year extension worth north of $8 million a season, it's fair to say the team is pulling out all the stops to re-sign its star blue-liner.

"We've been very clear that we're willing to do whatever we possibly can to have him come back," Coyotes general manager John Chayka told Adam Kimelman of NHL.com. "(We) think he's a heck of a defenseman, heck of a player, heck of a person.

"Really believe in him and what he can bring to our team. Trying to get something done to lock him up long, long term. Build around him and really put together a team he deserves."

Moves to appease OEL started last season, when the Coyotes recruited Ekman-Larsson's brother, Kevin, to suit up for their minor-league club.

The team also acquired fellow Swedish defenseman Niklas Hjalmarsson from the Chicago Blackhawks, a move that came at Ekman-Larsson's request.

Ekman-Larsson has spent his entire career with the Coyotes, tallying 290 points in 576 games. He finished last season with 14 goals and 28 assists across 82 appearances.

The 26-year-old is entering the last year of his current contract that carries a $5.5-million cap hit. He can re-sign with Arizona as soon as July 1.

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