Flames trying to get Miikka Kiprusoff to put off retirement
Blue Jackets reportedly interested in goalie
The Calgary Flames say they are not ready to give up on goaltender Miikka Kiprusoff just yet.
Kiprusoff has reportedly told the Finnish national team that he has retired, according to media reports that surfaced in Finland on Tuesday.
But Flames general manager Jay Feaster said in a statement that the team is still trying to persuade Kiprusoff to come back for another NHL season.
There was also a report Tuesday that the Columbus Blue Jackets have asked for permission to speak to Kiprusoff.
"In light of our most recent meeting with him, the statement attributed to him by the Finnish National Team does not come as a surprise. However, as we have said consistently, we will continue our dialogue with Miikka," Feaster said.
The 36-year-old goaltender has spent the last nine seasons with the Flames, helping them reach the Stanley Cup final in 2004. He won the Vezina Trophy as the league's top goaltender for his play in the 2005-'06 season.
He struggled last season with an 8-14-2 record in 24 games. Kiprusoff had a 3.44 goals-against average and .882 save percentage.
Calgary (19-25-4) finished 13th in the 15-team Western Conference last season with 42 points.
In 623 career regular-season games with the Flames and San Jose Sharks, Kiprusoff has a 319-213-71 record with a 2.49 GAA and .912 save percentage.