Ryane Clowe officially signs with ECHL's San Francisco Bulls

San Jose Sharks winger Ryane Clowe told CSN Bay Area that he only plans to practice after officially signing with the San Francisco Bulls on Tuesday. Pat Curcio, the president and head coach of the ECHL team, told CSN that it's Clowe's decision whether or not he decides to take the ice in competitive fashion for the Bulls.

Clowe's decision to only practice with the team doesn't mean he'll be far from the action. With the NHL lockout still to be resolved, he will sit behind the bench during games if he decides not to play.

Clowe communicated with CSNCalifornia today via text, saying he "still doesn't have any plans to play. Just practice for now."

If Clowe has a change of heart, he'll have the opportunity to play this Friday when San Francisco plays the Stockton Thunder. The Bulls also play Saturday against the Ontario Reign.

Clowe is one of few NHL players taking to the minor leagues to stay in game shape. Some players have continued skating in informal practices with their teammates while others have headed to Europe.

The Bulls are in their inaugural season and are the ECHL affiliate of the Sharks.