"We've had some small talks, so I think it's just something that we both have to sit down," Waddell said Friday. "It's not going to happen between now and Wednesday season opener against the Columbus Blue Jackets
to a contract. The 32-year-old forward has been at training camp on a professional tryout agreement.
"We're talking about it," Waddell said. "We're going to talk about it again in the next day or so and my gut is we'll end up signing him."
Stepan's contract might have to wait until after Carolina submits its opening night roster by the 5 p.m. ET deadline Monday and forward Max Pacioretty (torn Achilles tendon) and defenseman
Jake Gardiner
(hip) are placed on long-term injured reserve. Stepan had 19 points (nine goals, 10 assists) in 58 regular-season games and did not have a point in three playoff games with Carolina last season.
The Hurricanes placed forward Jordan Martinook on waivers Friday. He had 15 points (six goals, nine assists) in 59 regular-season games and one assist in six playoff games last season.
"It's vital that we maximize our flexibility prior to finalizing the opening day roster," Waddell told the Hurricanes website. "Our expectation is that Jordan will be a part of our group as we try to bring a championship to Raleigh this season."
