Wed Jul 2 18:39:13 2008

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Flyers sign Jones, Cote

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Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - The Philadelphia Flyers signed defenseman Randy Jones and forward Riley Cote to separate deals on Wednesday.

"We're very pleased to get both guys signed," said Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren. "Randy is a young player and key component of our defensive core, and can play in any type of situation. Likewise, Riley has developed tremendously over the course of last season and will continue to be an important part of this team moving forward."

Jones, a defenseman, was given a two-year extension, while forward Cote was inked to a three-year contract. Both players were restricted free agents.

The 26-year-old posted career-highs with five goals, 26 assists and 31 points in 71 games for Philly a season ago. He also registered a career-best plus- eight rating.

A native of New Brunswick, Jones has collected nine goals and 61 points in 170 contests in parts of four NHL seasons, all with the Flyers.

Jones served a two-game suspension early last the season after drilling Bruins forward Patrice Bergeron with a hit from behind in an October 27 contest. Bergeron has yet to return to action after suffering a Grade III concussion.

Cote had four points (1G, 3A) and accumulated 202 penalty minutes in 70 games during his rookie campaign.