Lightning/NHL

Flyers not panicked over injured goalie

By ASSOCIATED PRESS
Published September 28, 2006

VOORHEES, N.J. - Although the Philadelphia Flyers could be without goaltender Antero Niittymaki for up to two months, the team is in no hurry to acquire a proven NHL backup.

Niittymaki, who tore the cartilage in his left hip during a Tuesday practice, is awaiting results of tests and an exam to determine if surgery will be required.

The injury gives Robert Esche the chance to start most games in the early part of the season.

On Wednesday, general manager Bob Clarke said he had been contacted by the Lightning about goalie Sean Burke, a former Flyer. Clarke declined the offer, Burke was put on waivers Tuesday and cleared them.

Clarke said he will wait to find out how long Niittymaki will be out before making any personnel moves. If Niittymaki is out for a long time, Clarke indicated he may go after a veteran backup.

Kings: Goalie Dan Cloutier has agreed to a two-year extension, putting him under contract through the 2008-09 season. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Preseason games

Rangers 1, Bruins 0: Henrik Lundqvist made 30 saves in posting his second straight preseason shutout, and Adam Hall's late second-period goal was the difference for host New York.

Panthers 2, Thrashers 0: Florida goalie Alex Auld made 26 saves in Sunrise to beat Atlanta and give the Panthers their first preseason win.

Oilers 5, Canucks 4: Joffrey Lupul had a goal and two assists for host Edmonton.

Sharks 5, Flames 3: Steve Bernier scored three goals to lead visiting San Jose.

Avalanche 5, Stars 3: Ian Laperriere's tiebreaking goal on a third-period power play lifted visiting Colorado. LaPerriere worked a 2-on-1 with Paul Stastny, converting his return pass at 3:58.

Blackhawks 3, Blues 2: Adrian Aucoin had three assists and Jeff Hamilton added a goal and an assist to help visiting Chicago remain undefeated in the preseason.

Red Wings 5, Wild 3: Jason Williams had two goals and an assist to lift host Detroit.

Leafs 5, Senators 3: Mike Fisher scored a goal and had three assists to help visiting Ottawa.

[Last modified September 28, 2006, 01:46:28]