> MACHACEK SIGNED: The Thrashers signed forward Spencer Machacek, their third-round pick from last June, to a three-year, entry-level contract. Machacek, in the midst of a playoff run in the Western Hockey League with the Vancouver Giants, led Vancouver in goals and points during the regular season.

"We're very happy to add Spencer to our makeup," Thrashers coach and general manager Don Waddell said. "He's a leader and brings a lot of things to the table. When he's on the ice, something always happens. He makes a lot of contact and takes teams off their game."

If Machacek's team is knocked out of the playoffs early, he could join Chicago for the AHL playoffs. But Waddell said that hasn't been discussed yet.

> ESPOSITO NEXT? The Thrashers are negotiating with prospect Angelo Esposito, who was acquired in the Marian Hossa trade, trying to get him signed before the summer, Waddell said.

The status of the negotiations? "Not close," Waddell said. "We're having good negotiations, good talks. He's a player who is under different circumstances. If he doesn't play in the NHL, he has to go back to junior. But he's a player we'd like to get under contract."

> DUPUIS' BABY GIRL: Former Thrashers forward Pascal Dupuis was back in town briefly this week to be with his wife, who gave birth to their third child Monday. Zoe Dupuis was born a healthy 6 pounds, 5 ounces.

Dupuis, who was included in the deal that sent Hossa to Pittsburgh, was back with the Penguins on Wednesday. "Hat trick," Dupuis told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. "We're on the [penalty kill] right now. We're two pair of arms for three kids."