Flames match offer and retain Makarov

CALGARY, Alberta -- The Calgary Flames matched an offer sheet by the San Jose Sharks Tuesday and retained the services of right wing Sergei Makarov.

The former Soviet star, who was a Group III free agent, was signed to an offersheet by the Sharks last week. The Flames would not have been eligible for compensation from the Sharks for Makarov.

The 34-year-old Makarov has averaged 25 goals and 78 points in his three NHL seasons. Makarov spent 13 seasons in the Soviet Elite League before he won the Calder Trophy as the NHL top rookie in 1989-90.