National Hockey

SEATTLE — The group looking to bring professional hockey to Seattle has taken the next step in the pursuit of an NHL franchise.

Philadelphia Flyers goalie Brian Elliott had abdominal surgery on Tuesday and will be out 5 to 6 weeks, general manager Ron Hextall said.

MONTREAL — The Montreal Canadiens have signed goaltender Charlie Lindgren to a three-year contract extension. The American native has played in eight NHL games with Montreal this season with a .924 save percentage.

Shandor Alphonso never envisioned his hockey career taking him to officiating. He didn't have to look far to see it was possible.

GLENDALE, Ariz. — The Arizona Coyotes haven't had many nights like this one. Same for the Chicago Blackhawks, at least before this season.

EDMONTON — Offence wasn't an issue in Edmonton on Monday — for either team. Vincent Trocheck had three goals and Evgenii Dadonov added two as the Florida Panthers emerged with a 7-5 victory over the Oilers.

TORONTO — The Toronto Maple Leafs didn't let a late Tampa Bay rally affect their game plan Monday night. Instead they refocused to show they could compete with the top team in the Eastern Conference.

OTTAWA — The NHL trade deadline is still two weeks away but the Ottawa Senators know changes are imminent. For many players, it's a time to find ways to avoid the distraction of rumours and speculation and instead focus on the club's upcoming games.

NEWARK, N.J. — The New Jersey Devils have placed top goaltender Cory Schneider on injured reserve with groin and hip injuries. The team announced the move Monday, saying Schneider is expected to start skating next week.

BROSSARD, Que. — Montreal Canadiens centre Phillip Danault is a step closer to returning from a concussion that has kept him out of action since he was hit on the head by a Zdeno Chara slapshot a month ago.