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Capitals Sign Simon; Police Release Roy Report

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From Associated Press

The struggling Washington Capitals signed holdout Chris Simon, who had a team-high 29 goals last season, to a two-year, $4.5-million deal Monday.

Simon, 28, sat out all of training camp and the first three weeks of the regular season. The left wing will earn $2.25 million this year and next, with a club option for a third year, under the deal.

The defending Southeast Division champions are 1-3-3, averaging fewer than three goals per game.

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“It’s great to have him back,” team captain Adam Oates said after Monday’s practice. “If we had him in the beginning, we would have a couple more wins.”

Capital Coach Ron Wilson said he expects Simon to be in game shape within a week. Simon reached a career high in goals last season and had 20 assists.

“If he contributes the way he did last year, having him back is nothing but a bonus,” goaltender Olie Kolzig said. “He’s also great in the dressing room. It just adds a little confidence to our hockey team.”

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The wife of Patrick Roy, the NHL’s winningest goalie, called 911 because she was afraid of what her husband would do as they argued about in-laws, according to a Greenwood Village, Colo., police report released Monday.

Michele Roy was not hurt during the dispute at their home early Sunday, but Roy admitted pulling a bedroom door off its hinges and damaging another after his wife called police and hung up without speaking, the report said.

The somber Colorado Avalanche goalie, accompanied by his parents, sister and brother, stood with his hands clasped behind his back during a brief court appearance. The initial hearing was postponed until Nov. 7. His wife was absent.

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The judge also issued a restraining order that is standard in domestic-dispute cases, requiring Roy to refrain from alcohol and illegal drugs and possession of guns or weapons. He was permitted to return home to his family. After Avalanche practice, Roy read a brief statement but said he had been advised by his lawyer not to comment on his arrest. He also asked that the public respect his family’s privacy.

“Obviously, this is creating a distraction, and my wish is that this distraction will be over soon,” he said. “I am thankful for the support I am getting from my family and every one of my teammates.”

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Calgary Flame center Clark Wilm was hit by a puck in the nose but is expected to be in the lineup tonight against the Phoenix Coyotes. “It smashed all the cartilage underneath,” said Wilm, who absorbed the shot by the Toronto Maple Leafs’ Steve Thomas. “I might be going to see a plastic surgeon in the summer.”

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