Fans of the Chicago Blackhawks were left on the edge of their seats on Monday when one report had the team as a finalist for free agent forward Zach Parise. Parise spoke to reporters at 4:00 p.m. local time on Monday, but only said he needed more time to make his decision. The waiting game continues.
According to Adam Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times, the Blackhawks would have to offer the forward a long-term deal worth over $100 million including a $12 million signing bonus to be a serious contender for the services of the 27-year old. Signing Parise might also require the Blackhawks to trade a star player to get under the cap, perhaps Patrick Kane. Jahns listed the Devils, Penguins, Red Wings and Wild as the front-runners for the New Jersey forward.
Chicago is also said to be interested in defenseman Ryan Suter. One hockey blogger said this on Monday night:
Late word, the Hawks made significant offers to both Suter and Parise. Awaiting word, and are prepared to sign BOTH or either.
— John Jaeckel (@jaeckel) July 3, 2012
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