Hoffman has until Tuesday to file for arbitration, but the Senators would prefer to get a deal done before, Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun reports.
Hoffman is expected to come to an agreement with the Senators, but if not, he has the option of playing hardball. The addition of coach Guy Boucher -- who coached the winger during his time in Quebec Major Junior Hockey -- has been widely touted as a heavy influence in bringing the 2009 fifth-round draft pick back. Ottawa can match any offer Hoffman receives if needed, but expect the 26-year-old to return to the Sens barring an unforeseen issue in negotiations.