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Rumblings: Contract talks between Justin Williams, Kings stop

Justin Williams will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1 without a new deal. Dave Reginek/NHLI/Getty Images

We told you a few weeks ago that there was a time element to the Justin Williams contract negotiations with the Los Angeles Kings, and it appears the time for negotiations is over for the foreseeable future.

Well, kind of.

"Our intention is to leave negotiations until after the season," his agent Thane Campbell told ESPN.com via email Tuesday. "However, if they accepted our current position at any time, the deal would get done. We are not removing our last offer from the table and I believe they understand our position has little flexibility."

The reigning Conn Smythe Trophy winner is an unrestricted free agent on July 1, and while he loves playing in L.A., he also doesn’t want contract talks to drag on all year and become a distraction.

Kings general manager Dean Lombardi, busy with scouting meetings Tuesday, declined comment on the situation via text message.

But I will say this: Lombardi and Williams have a very good relationship. The Kings GM wants him back. So there’s still time before July 1.