Fedorov Deal May Up the Blake Stakes

Now that Detroit has decided to keep Sergei Fedorov for at least a year by matching Carolina’s six-year, $38-million offer, General Manager Dave Taylor said Thursday the Kings never really were close to making a deal with the Red Wings.

But like the other general managers around the NHL, Taylor now has to be concerned about the league’s salary structure. For instance, the Kings want to re-sign defenseman Rob Blake, whose contract runs out at the end of the season.

“[Fedorov’s contract] certainly doesn’t help,” Taylor said. “The offer sheets have an impact, no question. . . . We will find out how it will affect us when we get into negotiations.”

Said Blake: “I won’t be holding out, that’s for sure, but any time the salaries go up, it’s good to see.”