Gionta's agent in talks with NHL teams about contract after PyeongChang 2018

Brian Gionta could return to the NHL following a stint as captain of Team USA at PyeongChang 2018.

This according to agent Steve Bartlett, who's already engaged in talks with multiple teams in regards to a contract for the balance of this season, building off interest expressed in Gionta last summer when he was unwilling to move from Buffalo or spend a full year away from his family.

"I (told Gionta) maybe you could get a playoff run with a team, and a couple of months away from the family is better than all year," Bartlett told The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun. "He liked that idea. So it's been in the back of our mind as he prepared for the Olympics. I've had discussions with three-four (NHL) teams, and we're kind of focusing in on one right now that I think is the front-runner."

The 39-year-old is the oldest American competitor at the Winter Olympics, and has failed to record a point in two tournament games. He appeared in 82 contests for the Sabres last season, scoring 15 goals and adding 20 assists.

There's still some gas left in the tank, and Bartlett is confident Gionta will be back in the NHL for the stretch run.

"Assuming that those talks continue to move forward, I think he'll have a landing spot when all is said and done," Bartlett said. "We're optimistic. I'll continue to have discussions with interested teams, but right now our list is getting pretty short as far as what we think is a good fit for him and vice-versa."

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