NHL Rumors and Notes: Cam Ward, Andrei Markov, Patrik Laine and Kyle Connor
Cam Ward retires from the NHL after 14 seasons.
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Ward retires a Hurricane

Canes PR: The Carolina Hurricanes signed Cam Ward to a one-day contract and he officially retired from the NHL after 14 seasons – 13 of which were with the Hurricanes.

“It was an honor and a privilege to wear the Hurricanes jersey for 13 years,” said Ward. “Throughout it all, what stayed clear to me was my love for this organization, this city and this fan base. It is why my family and I call Raleigh home, and will continue to call it home. I appreciate all of the support the fans gave me throughout the highs and the lows. I thank you.”

Markov looking at an NHL comeback

Allan Walsh: Have been hired as defenseman Andrei Markov‘s agent.

Markov has been training in Florida and is hoping to be back in the NHL this season.

Pressure to get Laine and Connor signed will increase as season approaches

Tim Campbell of NHL.com: Winnipeg Jets head coach Paul Maurice on restricted free agents Patrik Laine and Kyle Connor.

“The pressure on both sides kind of comes at the same time, that the closer you get to the season, the more pressure comes on the team and the player to get a contract signed,” coach Paul Maurice told NHL.com in a recent interview. “We’ll see that mount and we’re hopeful (they’ll be signed) by the time the puck drops. You want everybody at camp, absolutely, but you really hope everybody’s done by the time the season starts.”

Maurice notes on the large amount of restricted free agents that remain unsigned a couple of weeks before the start of training camp.

“Everybody wants these contracts done but we all knew this was going to be late, that it wasn’t going to happen early because they’re almost moving en masse. I think once one or two go, they’ll all line up.”