New York Rangers: Rangers defenseman Vladimir Malakhov underwent surgery on his left shoulder Thursday but should be ready for the start of training camp, the team announced.

Dr. Jeff Abrams repaired a torn labrum during the procedure, which was performed at Princeton Orthopedic Associates in New Jersey. Malakhov immediately will begin a three-month rehabilitation program.

The 34-year-old Russian collected three goals and 14 assists in 71 games this season, missing seven contests as a result of the injury.

Edmonton Oilers: The Oilers signed general manager and executive vice president Kevin Lowe to a four-year contract extension Thursday that will take him through the 2007-08 season.

Lowe, a former star defenseman with the Oilers and later their head coach, was three years into his first four-year contract as general manager after replacing Glen Sather in 2000.

"I think that as we look forward to what might be ahead, Kevin is an asset to the organization,'' president Patrick LaForge said. "Having him under contract, and his ability to guide us ... is critical.''