 |
 |
|
| | Saturday, July 1 Lindros can't become unrestricted free agent | |||||
| Associated Press PHILADELPHIA -- The Philadelphia Flyers submitted an $8.5 million qualifying offer to center Eric Lindros on Friday night, preventing him from becoming an unrestricted free agent. Lindros, his career in jeopardy because of a series of concussions, has until Aug. 1 to accept the offer. "Eric Lindros is one of the top players in the game and is an integral part of the Flyers organization," said Bob Clarke, the Flyers' president and general manager. "We are hopeful that he will enjoy a complete recovery and return to play hockey at the high level to which we have become accustomed." Clarke also made an overture to Lindros personally, noting the feud between the former captain and management. "On a personal level, I greatly regret the extent to which the relationship between myself and Eric and his family has deteriorated," Clarke said. "I intend to do whatever I can to try to move this relationship onto a better course." The 27-year-old center has had six concussions in his NHL career, the most recent on a check by New Jersey's Scott Stevens in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference finals on May 26. James Kelly, a concussion expert who has been treating Lindros, said in a report that the injury-plagued star should not play for now, but can do light exercise, play golf and ride a bike. Lindros has said he doesn't know when he can return to the ice and is considering sitting out up to a full year. He even indicated he might play in Europe where the style of play is less physical. | ALSO SEE NHL prepares for free-agent signing period starting Saturday Canucks cut Messier loose with $2 million payday Uncertain Lindros still has symptoms from concussion | |||||