AROUND THE NHL

The Mighty Ducks signed unrestricted free agent defenseman Jason York, solidifying a defense that gave up 245 goals last season, the second most in the Western Conference.

York, 31, signed a three-year contract worth about $2.5 million a year. He had six goals and 28 points last season for Ottawa.

“I think this is a team on rise,” said York, who played for the Ducks in the 1994-95 and 1995-96 seasons. “I hope to add experience and help out in that fashion.”

Signing York, plus the acquisition of Keith Carney from the Phoenix Coyotes, gives the Ducks six solid defenseman.

“We wanted to improve our defense with veteran guys,” General Manager Pierre Gauthier said. “I liked the mix with Carney. I like it even more now that we’ve signed Jason.

“The challenge will be to make this jell because of the number of changes. With the improvements we have made, I feel we can contend for the playoffs.”

While Carney is a stay-at-home defenseman, York is more adept at handling the puck. He shoots from the right side and the other Duck defensemen are left-handed.

York, a six-year veteran, scored 30 points in 1999-2000 and 35 points in 1998-99.

“Jason is a well-rounded player,” Gauthier said. “He can participate in the offense and get the puck out of our end. He’s not an intimidating guy, but he is always near the top on his team with hits.”

York played with the Ducks when Gauthier was an assistant general manager. When Gauthier was Ottawa’s general manager, he traded for York.

York is also familiar with Duck Coach Bryan Murray. He played for Murray in Detroit from 1991-93.

“I had few other options from a few other teams,” York said. “It’s tough when you get to the time in your career when it’s your choice. I always thought about coming back to Anaheim. It seemed like the right fit.”