Maple Leafs forward Kadri all smiles at camp after signing two-year deal

TORONTO – Nazem Kadri was all smiles as he reported to Maple Leafs camp Wednesday fresh off signing a two-year contract.

The 22-year-old centre called the US$5.8-million deal “fair for both sides.”

He said the talks dragged on longer than he or the team wanted and that this could have probably been done sooner. But now that it’s done, Kadri expressed mostly relief and teammates joined him in that sentiment.

“I’m sure they’ll take me out for a nice dinner on me,” Kadri said.

Kadri had 44 points (18 goals, 26 assists) in 48 games last season and added four points (1-3) in seven playoff games. The London, Ont., native was selected by Toronto with the seventh overall pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.

Restricted free agent defenceman Cody Franson was not in attendance for the start of Leafs camp because he has yet to sign.

Kadri has been in touch with Franson throughout the process, talking about skating contingency plans in case neither had a deal before camp. Instead, Kadri beat the clock to get into camp, while Franson waits.