DETROIT (AP) -- Restricted free agent Sergei Fedorov says he's prepared to sit out the entire season if that's what it takes for him to get the contract he wants. 
 "There's been precedence -- back in the early or late '70s when (former Montreal goalie) Ken Dryden sat out one year, and, boy, did he make the money," Fedorov told WJBK-TV in an interview broadcast Monday. "I can see myself doing that. Why not? Because it's not about money. Because it's about what I believe in." 
 The former MVP said it's been a long 3 1/2 months, but it's worth it for him to wait out his bitter contract dispute with the Detroit Red Wings. 
 "It seems to me it's going to take a little longer, I guess. That's fine," he said. 
 The Russian center, a former winner of the Hart and Selke trophies, is a restricted free agent reportedly seeking a $6 million a year salary in a four-year contract. The Red Wings reportedly have offered $5 million a year over four years. 
 "It seems to me it's been 3 1/2 months gone without any movement," Fedorov said. 
 While his former teammates have skated to a second-place record so far in the NHL, Fedorov has been practicing with the Central Red Army Team in Russia and at the Troy Sports Center in Michigan. 
 "I still have a great passion for this game, the game of hockey," he said. "That's why I'm still by myself, still, after all that long time ... still practicing by myself, still feeling good about myself and right about myself." 
 Fedorov said last summer's limousine accident that injured team masseur Sergei Mnatsakanov and players Vladimir Konstantinov and Vyacheslav Fetisov has also made it a difficult year for him. 
 As for Red Wings fans, Fedorov said he appreciated their support. 
 "I would say that the best times here in Detroit will always be behind me," he said. "I know quite a few people who've wished me all the best, whatever I do and whatever's going to happen. I'd like to thank them so much for their support."