Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman signed a contract with Barys Astana of Russia's Kontinental Hockey League and will report Friday, his agent said.
"He wants to play in the best league there is right now," agent Peter Wallen said of finding Hedman a place to play during the NHL lockout.
AULIE SIGNS: Lightning defenseman Keith Aulie signed a minor league contract with AHL Syracuse. Aulie, who has a two-way deal with Tampa Bay, now can play for the Crunch without passing through waivers.
Damian Cristodero, Times staff writer
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