Hurricanes deny Karmanos wants to sell team

The Carolina Hurricanes probably didn't expect to have to put out a fire while the Montreal Canadiens rolled through town, but were prepared to safeguard the brand on Friday regardless.

In response to speculation stirred by a Montreal radio station, Hurricanes president Don Waddell denied rumors that owner Peter Karmanos wants to sell the team and wouldn't hesitate if a prospective buyer planned to relocate the franchise.

Waddell said the Hurricanes are in "the best shape ever" financially, and ownership has not turned down an offer, according to Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News and Observer.