Wideman announcement 'premature'

GM Peter Chiarelli said the Bruins have not re-signed Dennis Wideman, although he said they are close to an agreement. According to a Sportsnet report, Wideman had signed a four-year extension.

"No announcement. Premature," said Chiarelli, who was on vacation last week. "It's going to get done. We're tinkering with a couple things."

Chiarelli said the final contract will purchase a year or two of Wideman's unrestricted free agency. Chiarelli acknowledged that once Wideman signs his extension, the Bruins will need to make a move or two to get under the $56 million cap by opening night. Chiarelli said buyouts -- there will be a three-day quiet period after Wideman signs, then a 48-hour window in which buyouts can take place -- remain an option, as do trades and AHL assignments.

* The Bruins have re-signed restricted free agent D Johnny Boychuk, acquired from Colorado for F Matt Hendricks on June 24. F Nate Thompson and F Pascal Pelletier have yet to re-sign.