1.   Before the game, the Astros closed their clubhouse to the media and had optional batting practice.

2.   Brodeur, who took part in the optional practice, has made it clear he wants a shot at the record books.

3.   Following an optional practice Wednesday, Devils players would not speculate on how many points they think they must win to make the playoffs.

4.   Hatcher, Turgeon close Defenseman Derian Hatcher and center Pierre Turgeon were two of six Stars players to participate in an optional practice Monday.

5.   Meanwhile, none of the Ranger regulars showed up for an optional practice Friday at Rye, N.Y., but Campbell and his staff did.

6.   Only eight players showed up for the optional practice Wednesday and were put through a workout by Mike Murphy, the assistant coach.

7.   Players David Vaughn and Brian Shaw were not at the optional practice, and it was not clear whether either testified.

8.   Ronning, who has been suffering from concussion-like symptoms, took part in an optional practice Friday after doctors cleared him to return.

9.   Richter said he was told Thursday of the decision during an optional practice at Rye Playland Ice Casino.

10.   The Devils also had an optional practice in East Rutherford, N.J., but every player had to report anyway for a meeting.