Blues buy out final year of McKee's contract

The St. Louis Blues are cutting ties with Jay McKee, buying out the final year of the defenseman's contract. The 31-year-old McKee signed a four-year, $16-million free agent contract in 2006 and was due $4 million for next season. The Blues are responsible for two-thirds ($2.64 million) of McKee's salary, which will be spread out the next two seasons. McKee, known for his shot-blocking ability, played in 158 games during an injury-marred tenure in St. Louis.