Teemu Selanne Likely to Return to the Anaheim Ducks
Teemu Selanne has revealed that he plans to return to the National Hockey League (NHL) for at least one more season. Selanne plans on joining the Anaheim Ducks, and he believes that the deal should be hammered out in the next couple days.
There was speculation that Selanne would not return for an 18th NHL season because of Anaheim’s poor showing in last year’s standings. Anaheim finished 11th in the Western Conference and was a full six points out of eighth spot.
Selanne told the Finnish magazine Sports Journal that he did not plan on returning to the Ducks if they were going to undergo a rebuild. However, it appears as though the recent moves from General Manager Bob Murray have appeased the speedy left-winger, and he believes they can challenge next season.
Murray has recently bolstered the defence by bringing in Lubomir Visnovsky and Andy Sutton. Last season, Murray also brought in veteran centre and Finnish player Saku Koivu.
Selanne said he has planned to continue his career for some time stating, “I made the decision to continue my career, in fact, it has been clear for a long time. Negotiations are now ready to begin.”
It also appears that a Selanne's return would coincide with Paul Kariya’s move to joining the Ducks.
Selanne mentioned that he is trying to get both sides together. “I’ve talked to Paul and the Ducks. Paul has been waiting for my decision and I hope things move forward.”
This would mark the third time the two have played with one another, the first being in Anaheim, and then again in for the Colorado Avalanche just before the lock-out.
Selanne struggled with an injury last season but still managed to notch 27 goals and 21 assists in 48 games.
Selanne is perhaps the best Finnish player of all time, having managed 606 goals and 654 assists for 1,260 points in 1,186 NHL appearances.
Tags: