Edmonton’s Oilers Won’t Be Leaving Soon

The Houston millionaire interested in buying the NHL’s Edmonton Oilers will have to fight city hall if he wants to move the team to Texas.

The city of Edmonton made it clear Monday that it plans to hold Les Alexander to a deal signed by Peter Pocklington in 1994 that was intended keep the team in Alberta’s capital for seven more years.

Alexander, owner of the NBA’s Houston Rockets, is reportedly close to a deal with Pocklington, to buy the five-time winners of the Stanley Cup. But the city is clinging to an agreement it has with Pocklington.

In return for a variety of concessions, including $15 million from three levels of government, Pocklington agreed to keep the club in Edmonton until 2004.

Alexander hoped to come up with a slightly different arrangement, but would not be specific.

Hurricanes goalie charged

Carolina Hurricanes goalie Sean Burke, charged with assaulting his wife, was expected to return to practice today in Raleigh.

A four-time MVP for the team when it was based in Hartford prior to this season, Burke did not dress when the Hurricanes beat the Vancouver Canucks 5-3 Monday night. Burke was released from jail earlier in the day.

Burke, 30, and his wife have two children.

On the ice

Eric Lindros scored twice before leaving with a rib injury Monday night in St. Louis as the Philadelphia Flyers snapped a four-game winless streak and ended St. Louis’ nine-game home unbeaten streak with a 5-1 win over the Blues. Lindros left the game after two periods with what was announced as bruised ribs.