Kings, Jack Johnson near long-term extension | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

DefensemanJack Johnsonand the Kings are near an agreement on a multi-year contract extension and could complete the details on Sunday.

"We’re close, it’s fair to say," assistant general managerRon Hextallsaid Saturday before the Kings faced the Columbus Blue Jackets at Staples Center.

The extension was first reported byESPN.com'sPierre LeBrunduring Hockey Night in Canada’s telecast. He speculated that the duration of the deal would be six to seven years and it would be worth $4 million to $4.5 million a year.

Johnson, who will be 24 next week, has four goals, 28 points and a -3 defensive rating this season. He was a member of the silver medal-winning U.S. Olympic hockey team at the Vancouver Games and seemed to gain confidence from his performance there, though he still has some issues defensively.

Johnson is earning $1.425 million this season and was eligible to become a restricted free agent on July 1.

Unlike most players, Johnson won’t have to pay an agent’s fee for negotiating the deal: he represented himself.

--Helene Elliott

Photo: Kings defenseman Jack Johnson battles Blue Jackets winger Patric Hornqvist for the puck in the first period Thursday night at Staples Center. Credit: Chris Carlson / Associated Press

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