Capitals open camp

The Washington Capitals opened practice yesterday with unabated optimism and dreams of success in the NHL, even though they are again in the position of hoping for more offense and have not yet signed Peter Bondra, who led the Caps and the league in goal scoring last season.

The Capitals have 53 players on their opening roster. General manager David Poile said yesterday he has not spoken to Bondra's agent, Rich Winter, since before the draft in July. He said Winter has asked for a number of things from the Capitals before negotiations begin.

Last night, Bondra said he did not know what those things were, but added, "I just think they are each just waiting for the other one to call because the last time they talked, the offers were far apart."

Also unsigned is Michal Pivonka, who assisted on many of Bondra's 34 goals in the 48-game season.