Wideman seeks arbitration

There remains a chance the Bruins will buy out Glen Murray's contract, but thanks to defenseman Dennis Wideman, they now have added time.

Wideman, in line for a big pay boost as a restricted free agent, has filed for salary arbitration, which could affect how the Bruins conduct business around the opening of NHL free agency Tuesday.

The action by Wideman, confirmed yesterday afternoon by a source with firsthand knowledge of the negotiations, allays the Bruins' concerns about buying out players prior to the league-imposed deadline Monday afternoon.

The arbitration process, per the league's collective bargaining agreement, allows clubs to revisit buyout plans for 48 hours after each arbitration award. Wideman's hearing cannot be held before July 20 or later than Aug. 4. And the decision would not be rendered until July 22 at the earliest, Aug. 6 at the latest.

All of which means the Bruins, if they are interested in buying out a roster player or two, have at least an extra three weeks to make that decision. A buyout could take place as late as Aug. 8. Whatever the amount of Wideman's arbitration award, the Bruins will have up to two days after it has been rendered to decide if they need to shed a contract or two (three maximum) to make room for the young, puck-moving defenseman's salary.

Murray, due $4.15 million in 2008-09, remains the likeliest candidate to be bought out. The Bruins would receive immediate cap relief of some $2.8 million.

The Bruins and Wideman could agree prior to the arbitration hearing. It is unlikely, however, that general manager Peter Chiarelli will try to accelerate that process at the risk of losing the extended buyout window.