Mighty Ducks, Van Allen Agree to Three-Year Contract

Shaun Van Allen, one of the Mighty Ducks’ steadiest players and their second-leading scorer last season, has agreed to terms on a three-year contract, General Manager Jack Ferreira said Wednesday.

Van Allen, surpassing expectations, trailed only Paul Kariya in scoring this season. Van Allen had 29 points; Kariya had 39.

“He’s just so versatile,” Ferreira said. “He can play any forward position and he’s so good defensively. I think for the next three years there’s always going to be a place for him.”

Van Allen, 27, who would have gone into his option year in 1995-96, will be under contract through the 1997-98 season.

“He wants to stay in Anaheim,” said Rick Curran, Van Allen’s agent.

A fifth-round pick by Edmonton in 1987, Van Allen played primarily in the minors. The Ducks signed him as a free agent July 22, 1993.

Van Allen and Kariya tied for the team lead with 21 assists. Van Allen set a team record with four assists in a 4-4 tie March 9 with Detroit. He holds the Duck career record with 46 assists in 125 games.

In other news:

* Arbitration hearings are set for free agents Todd Ewen (June 16) and Garry Valk (June 27). Ferreira hopes to sign both soon after he learns the outcome of the hearings.

* Ferreira will make a qualifying offer July 1 to free agent Joe Sacco. That will give the Ducks the right to match offers from other teams. The Ducks will not re-sign David Williams, Ferreira said.

* The Ducks have signed a three-year contract with KEZY-FM, their flagship station.