The Hawks and Al Horford appear to be prepared to discuss a contract extension right up until the Nov. 1 deadline.
Horford said the Hawks and agent Arn Tellem, who have been in discussions for nearly a month, are set to meet at the end of the week.
If no deal is reached by Monday, Horford will become a restricted free agent next summer.
"I kind of have thought this all along, but I think it really is going to come down to the last day," Horford said.