Comeau arbitration appears likely

 With Blake Comeau's arbitration date scheduled next week Thursday, it appears likely he will enter the hearing without a new deal.

When asked about the likelihood of signing the 25-year-old winger before August 4, general manager Garth Snow said "it looks like it will go to arbitration."

"We've has some discussions that have been positive, but if a deal isn't struck, arbitration is a tool we can use to come to a resolution." Snow said during a rally for a new Coliseum Wednesday.

Comeau, who finished with a career-high season of 24 goals and 22 assists, is in line for a significant raise from the $800,000 he made last season. Comeau's agent, Kurt Overhardt, declined to characterize the discussions and said via email, "I don't negotiate in the media."

Arbitration also appeared imminent for restricted free agent Matt Moulson last summer, but a deal was struck the morning the hearing was set to take place.