PITTSBURGH (AP) -- Seven-time All-Star Mark Recchi signed a three-year contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins on Friday, returning to the city where he started his pro career 16 years ago.

Recchi led Philadelphia in goals, assists and points last season, helping the Flyers reach the Eastern Conference finals. He scored 20 goals or more in each of the last five seasons.

Recchi's agent, Rick Curran, wouldn't provide details on the contract, but said the right wing is ``absolutely delighted'' to be in Pittsburgh, where he has kept a home for several years.

Recchi became an unrestricted free agent July 1. Flyers general manager Bob Clarke had said he wouldn't attempt to sign Recchi until there was a collective bargaining agreement in place.

Recchi had 252 points with the Penguins from 1988-92. He led the team in scoring during 1990-91, and, in 24 playoff games that season, had 34 points as the Penguins clinched their first Stanley Cup.

Recchi was later traded to the Flyers and played for the Canadiens from 1995-99, before being traded back to the Flyers that year.

1)This team let go Hedberg & Straka because they cost too much;no dollar signs mentioned.Is a) Mark playing for the league minimum,or b)is Mario closer to actual retirement,freeing up some cash?

2)Is this a prep for Recchi's retirement...as a Pen?

7/11/01-1/23/03.
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