Rumor: One of the best defensive free agents close to signing.

If you're a fan of an NHL team looking to solidify it's blue line you're likely down to one of two options, free agents Marek Zidlicky and Cody Franson.

However those options may be dwindling and it seems like one team may be the frontrunner when it comes to signing Zidlicky. According to a report from Arthur Staple of NewsDay the New York Islanders and Zidlicky are both interested in making a deal a reality.

Staple's report indicates that the two sides have been in discussions for some time now and have even talked contract, although no final decision has been made on either side.

With the rumors that Cody Franson is seriously considering an offer from the Boston Bruins teams who were playing the waiting game with these two men may soon be forced to scramble to get a deal done before it's too late.

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#Isles and UFA D Marek Zidlicky have been discussing a contract past few weeks. Nothing decided on either side, but interest is there.

— Arthur Staple (@StapeNewsday) August 12, 2015