| Subject: Chelios close to being a WOLVE (AHL) |
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Buffy
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Date Posted: 08:24:49 09/28/04 Tue
Chelios has an option -- AHL
September 28, 2004BY HELENE ST. JAMES
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER
Defenseman Chris Chelios has every intention of playing for Detroit again. But first, he may be playing for Chicago.
Chelios said Monday that it was a breakdown in communication that prevented him from signing a one-year, $2.5 million contract with the Red Wings before Sept. 15. On that day the collective bargaining agreement between the NHL and the players association expired, leaving clubs and players unable to strike deals with one another.
Chelios, 42, and general manager Ken Holland had a verbal agreement on the money and length aspects of a contract by early July, but then came the hurdle of insurance for the World Cup. Even after the tournament ended for the Americans on Sept. 10, nothing was signed.But that doesn't mean Chelios won't rejoin his old mates."Everything is fine," Chelios said. "I talked to Kenny after the World Cup, and everything is fine. I have a deal done but we can't do anything until it's over."Chelios plans to ride out the lockout with the
Chicago Wolves of the American Hockey League -- provided he can acquire coverage. ."It's really hard to get insurance when you're 35 or older," Chelios said. "Very few will cover you. But I've talked with the Wolves, and we've basically agreed on a contract I just have to get insurance."
Although the Wolves have begun training camp, Chelios had planned all along to take a month off after the World Cup, which for the Americans ended with a semifinal loss Finland. Instead he is working out, and has skated with Derian Hatcher, another Wings defenseman, and Doug Brown, a former Wings forward.
Chelios also is enjoying a little extra time with his children, although he stops short of helping them with their homework."I'm no genius," he said.
Contact HELENE ST. JAMES
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