Favre says report of comeback is 'all rumor'

The quarterback responded Wednesday to the ESPN report by telling his hometown newspaper website, SunHerald.com in Gulfport, Miss., that "it's all rumor."

The paper reported that Favre sent a text message saying there's "no reason" for a media frenzy.

ESPN reported that an unidentified Green Bay Packers source said the 38-year-old Favre told Coach Mike McCarthy in the last two weeks that he has the itch to play.

"The Packers have no reaction," team spokesman Jeff Blumb told the Associated Press.

The Times reported in April that, according to NFL sources, Favre's agent, James "Bus" Cook, had quietly inquired with teams about their interest in trading for the three-time NFL most valuable player.

Cook didn't return a message seeking comment. Packers General Manager Ted Thompson and McCarthy were on vacation.

Favre retired March 6 after a 17-year career.

HOCKEY

Defenseman Bickel signs with the Ducks

The Ducks signed defenseman Stu Bickel of the University of Minnesota to a three-year entry-level contract.

A physical, stay-at-home type, Bickel, 21, had one goal and six assists in 45 games during his freshman season with the Golden Gophers. He also had a team-leading 92 penalty minutes.

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Eric Stephens

Winger Marian Hossa has left the Pittsburgh Penguins and signed a one-year contract with Detroit worth a reported $7.45 million. Meanwhile, forward Evgeni Malkin signed a five-year extension with the Penguins worth $43.5 million, a deal that will keep him under contract until 2013-14.

The New York Islanders agreed to terms with veteran forward Doug Weight on a one-year deal worth $1.75 million plus incentives. Weight spent part of last season with the Ducks.

The Dallas Stars signed former New York Ranger and King Sean Avery to a $15.5-million, four-year deal.

COLLEGES

Indiana to give up two basketball scholarships

Indiana will give up two basketball scholarships for the upcoming season in anticipation of penalties related to the NCAA's Academic Progress Rate, a university official said.

Tennessee signed football Coach Phillip Fulmer and basketball Coach Bruce Pearl to new deals through 2014.