Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen insisted that his meeting on Sunday in Nice, France, with forward Artemi Panarin wouldn’t include a contract offer and it wouldn’t find him begging or pleading for Panarin to stay long-term in Columbus.



Even in the intoxicating breezes of the French Riviera, Kekalainen stayed true to his word during a 45-minute meeting, which was said to be cordial and professional.



But the meeting wasn’t without developments.



Panarin informed Kekalainen that he wants all business matters pushed aside as of Sept. 13, the day training camp opens in Columbus and across the NHL. Panarin’s agent confirmed this to The Athletic on Thursday.



“Artemi loves hockey,” his agent, Daniel Milstein said. “He hates the business side of hockey.



“When the season starts, the focus can only be on playing. He’s going to play his best and give his best to the hockey...