Sabres Star Can Play

Buffalo Sabres captain Pat LaFontaine’s doctors have cleared him to play and he expects to resume his NHL career after recovering from a serious concussion that sidelined him last fall.

LaFontaine said neurologists Dr. Warren Olanow and Dr. James Kelly, informed him he would be at minimal risk and could continue playing.

Team doctors still need to clear the star center before he begins practice with the Sabres.

Free-agent left wing Esa Tikkanen signed a one-year contract with the Florida Panthers, the team he helped the New York Rangers eliminate from the playoffs last season with two overtime goals.

Tikkanen, known mostly for his postseason play, had been negotiating with the Panthers for much of the summer.