It appears as though restricted free agent Marcus Kruger is willing to accept a short-term deal with the Chicago Blackhawks should general manager Stan Bowman fail to clear up the cap space needed for a longer commitment.

Marcus Kruger waiting for #Blackhawks to clear cap space in hopes of longer deal. If no room by later in August, will take short-term deal. — Chris Kuc (@ChrisKuc) July 27, 2015

The Blackhawks currently have the NHL's second-highest payroll, with only $230,000 in available cap space, according to General Fanager.

Kruger, who appeared in 81 games for the Blackhawks in 2014-15, scored seven goals and added 10 assists while carrying a cap hit of $1,325,000.