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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Knightfall" data-source="post: 3039894" data-attributes="member: 2012">Zherdev, Columbus still not speakingTSN.ca Staff8/31/2006 12:12:15 PMThe chances Nikolai Zherdev will be playing in Columbus this season are dwindling.Agent Rolland Hedges says he's not optimistic the two sides can get a deal done before October 6, adding no discussions are planned.If Zherdev doesn't sign with the Blue Jackets before October 6, he will play this season for Russian club Khimik Voskresenk - something that general manager Doug MacLean appears to be resigned to happening."We haven't even had a number from them lately," MacLean tells the Columbus Dispatch. "I know my number, and it's a fair offer."The Blue Jackets have reportedly offered Zherdev a two year deal worth almost $3.8-million after pulling a one year, $1.25-million deal off the table."We declined that (offer) many weeks ago," says Hedges. "It's frustrating for everyone involved. We just thought there would have been more in the way of meaningful discussions by this point. ... It's always, 'This is what we're prepared to do, take it or leave it.' "MacLean says while he has an eye on the free agent market, he'll wait to see what the outcome of the Zherdev situation is before making his next move.Zherdev, the fourth player taken overall in 2003, finished second in team scoring last season with 27 goals and 54 points.</blockquote>