"An abitrator has awarded Nashville defenceman Shea Weber $7.5 million US for next season, according to CBC Sports senior hockey writer Tim Wharnsby.

Weber and the Predators made presentations to an arbitrator Tuesday in Toronto. Weber, through his Tian Sports represenation, reportedly asked for $8.5 million, while the team put forth a case for $4.75 million, a minimal increase from last season.'

The Predators filed for arbitration in mid-June with Weber in order to prevent other clubs from making an offer sheet, and to also buy themselves several weeks before the scheduled hearing to hammer out a long-term deal.

Weber, who turns 26 later this month, was a Norris Trophy finalist the past season. The Sicamous, B.C., native had 16 goals and a career-high 32 assists while appearing in all 82 games.

He averaged $4.5 million US per year during the term of his last deal.

Because the arbitration was initiated by the

It was the first arbitration session of the summer in the NHL, with other clubs able to avoid the often contentious hearings hours before they were scheduled. New Jersey signed Zach Parise to a $6 million deal last week in such an instance."