Nabby/Isles Still Far Apart on Contract Extension

Update: According to Pierre Lebrun, Evgeni Nabokov is likely headed to July 1st as he was told by Garth Snow, "We couldn't come to an agreement, it looks like he is headed to July 1."

According to Arthur Staple, the Islanders and goalie Evgeni Nabokov remain far apart on a potential contract extension as free agency approaches in under two weeks.

It was reported in the aftermath of the teams acquisition of Jaroslav Halak that Garth Snow had, had productive discussions with Evgeni Nabokov's agent about the Russian net minder coming back to serve as Halaks backup.  Additionally, it had been assumed by many that Nabokov would end up coming back as the teams backup so this news is surprising to say the least.

With 2 weeks until free agency, #Isles and G Evgeni Nabokov are not close on a deal. Team needs a backup (or 2) for Jaro Halak.
— Arthur Staple (@StapeNewsday) June 18, 2014

I was very surprised to read this as I was one who fully expected Nabokov to return next season as Halaks backup.  Although surprised, I am encouraged by this because there are many options on the open market that I would prefer over a reunion with Nabokov so this makes me think they might be looking to go in another direction.