CALGARY, Alberta — Theo Fleury’s comeback attempt with the Flames ended with his release by the team Friday.
Fleury, who was suspended indefinitely by the NHL for violating its substance-abuse policy six years ago, had a goal and four points in four exhibition games and also scored a shootout winner, but that wasn’t enough to earn a place among the Flames’ top forwards.
“I believe Theoren did a great job and should be proud, especially considering all the factors including age, time away from the game and lifestyle change,” general manager Darryl Sutter said. “This is not a hockey story, it’s a life story.
“Our agreement with Theoren was that he had to be one of our top six wingers and there were never any intentions of assigning him to the American Hockey League.”
Fleury, a former member of the Avalanche, said he intends “to take the next few days to review this experience and make decisions with my family regarding next steps in my life.”
Devils sign Niedermayer
NEWARK, N.J. — Center Rob Niedermayer, the brother of former Devils defenseman Scott Niedermayer, signed a one-year contract with New Jersey.
Rob Niedermayer, 34, is entering his 16th NHL season. He had 14 goals in 79 games last season with the Ducks, who re-signed his brother during the summer.
“It’s pretty ironic how it turned out, for sure,” Rob Niedermayer said. “I spoke with Scott and his family this morning, and they were just kind of laughing about it.”
Canucks release Parrish
VANCOUVER, B.C. — The Canucks released Mark Parrish, who had two assists in four preseason games.
Parrish, a third-round draft pick of the Avalanche in 1996, scored eight goals in 44 games last season with the Stars.
The 32-year-old forward has 216 goals and 385 points in 704 career NHL games over 10 seasons. The Associated Press
