Mark Recchi of the Montreal Canadiens received the highest arbitration award in NHL history Monday, getting a one-year deal worth $4.5 million.
The right wing, who had been seeking $24 million over four years, will become an unrestricted free agent after the season unless the sides finally agree to a long-term deal.
Recchi becomes the highest-paid player in Montreal history, surpassing team captain Vincent Damphousse, who signed a one-year deal worth $3.275 million July 31.
Recchi, who had 32 goals and 42 assists last season, made $2.75 million last season. He signed his previous contract when he was a member of the Philadelphia Flyers. In 710 career games, the 30-year-old has 317 goals and 472 assists.
– Advised by his doctor to stop playing hockey after a sixth concussion, center Pat LaFontaine of the New York Rangers will retire Tuesday at Madison Square Garden.
The 15-year veteran sustained his latest concussion March 16, ending his only season with the Rangers. Neurologist Jim Kelly told him he was at risk for more concussions.
