Penguins Sign Kasparaitis
Darius Kasparaitis, the most physical defenseman on a team better known for goal scorers, reached terms Wednesday with the Pittsburgh Penguins on a $3 million, two-year contract.
Penguins owner Mario Lemieux suggested Kasparaitis' contract, worth $1.4 million this season and $1.6 million in 2000-01, puts the payroll slightly over budget. But he said general manager Craig Patrick would adjust it as the season progresses.
"It's great to get him signed before the season started," Lemieux said.
Kasparaitis, who had reconstructive knee surgery in March, said his knee has been fine for months.
"I'm happy and relieved we were able to finally sign Darius," Patrick said.
Kasparaitis, a restricted free agent, spent more than a month negotiating the contract. The talks nearly broke down several times and Kasparaitis, who is from Lithuania, nearly returned to Europe to work out on his own.
Kasparaitis, a former New York Islander who still lives on Long Island, has not skated much recently because he could not book ice time.
"Of course, I'm happy to be back because this is my job and I'm glad we got it done before the season started," Kasparaitis said. "Now, it's time for me to get back in shape and get ready to play."
The 26-year-old Kasparaitis first injured his knee in a preseason game more than a year ago. Despite being urged to undergo surgery, he returned to play 48 games before reinjuring the knee March 5. He had surgery to repair an anterior cruciate ligament three weeks later.
He has not practiced with the Penguins since March, so he will not play in Dallas or, possibly, in the first couple of regular season games. But the Penguins play only five times in the first three weeks of the season.
"I looked at the schedule, and it looks good for me not to miss many games," he said. "I have plenty of time to get skating with the team and get in shape."
The Penguins acquired Kasparaitis and Andreas Johansson from the Islanders on Nov. 17, 1996 for forward Bryan Smolinski. Kasparaitis has seven goals, 28 points, 281 penalty minutes and a plus-39 rating in 186 games with Pittsburgh.
After re-signing Kasparaitis, the Penguins assigned defenseman Sven Butenschon to Wilkes-Barre-Scranton (AHL).
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