Will Butcher update: Both sides still talking

While there is no agreement yet in place, the good news for fans of the Avalanche who fervently hope University of Denver defenseman and Hobey Baker winner Will Butcher signs with the team is: the two sides are still talking.

Butcher, who starred for the Pioneers team that won the NCAA hockey championship this month, met with Avs general manager Joe Sakic last week, but told him he wanted more time to think things over before entering into any serious talks with the Avs.

As of Wednesday morning, the two sides were still in communication. If Butcher declines any offer from the Avs, the team that drafted him in the fifth round of the 2013 NHL draft, he will become an unrestricted free agent Aug. 15.

More news as it develops…