OVIE'S GROWING
Washington Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau believes he has yet to see the best of two-time MVP Alex Ovechkin. "He can get a lot better and I think he will," Boudreau told Reuters. "Offensively, I don't know. But we need to see him do it both offensively and defensively. There's a lot of room for improvement in his game. And that's something because he's really, really good right now."
SUNDIN HANGS UP THE SKATES
Swedish center Mats Sundin ended his NHL career quietly yesterday, in much the same way as he conducted himself during his 19 years as a professional. "It's a little sad to announce that my career as a professional hockey player is over," he told reporters.
CANES' WARD INKS NEW DEAL
The Carolina Hurricanes and netminder Cam Ward have agreed a six-year $37.8 million contract extension, the NHL club said on Wednesday. The deal, which begins next season and runs through 2015-16 will pay the 25-year-old Canadian an average of $6.3 million a year. "We are pleased to have reached this agreement with Cam prior to the season," Hurricanes general manager Jim Rutherford said on the team's website.
HABS SUSPEND KOSTITSYN
Sergei Kostitsyn has been suspended indefinitely by the Montreal Canadiens, general manager Bob Gainey announced yesterday. The Habs took action against the young forward when he failed to report to the team's American Hockey League affiliate in Hamilton after being reassigned earlier this week. Kostitsyn, according to many observers, was not in prime shape when he reported to training camp, a significant reason why he was sent down. Gainey said Kostitsyn has asked for a trade, but quickly added that nothing is imminent.
