Despite their major trade of Chris Pronger to the Philadelphia Flyers last night, the Anaheim Ducks announced that both of two other veteran star players are coming back for another encore season.
Who would they be, you ask? They would be two key members of their 2007 Stanley Cup championship team in defenseman Scott Niedermayer and forward Teemu Selanne. Certainly it is great news for Ducks fans.
First, it was within less than one hour before the start of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft last night where Niedermayer confirmed he was coming back. Then USA Today's Kevin Allen reported on his Twitter page that Selanne would return to play an 18th National Hockey League season.
Selanne who is set to turn 39 on July 3rd, became the Ducks' all-time leader in assists (370) and games played (617) last season. He may not score as many as he did in his record-breaking 1992-1993 rookie campaign where he scored 76 goals, but he's looking forward to competing hard again for another championship.
"I'm very happy to play another season in Anaheim," Selanne said. "The way we played toward the end of last season, I'm excited about our chances. We definitely have what it takes to win."
Ducks general manager Bob Murray added, "This is obviously great news for the Ducks. Teemu is still playing at a high level, brings passion and energy to the locker room and is a loyal member of this franchise. It's fantastic he's chosen to continue his playing career."
Selanne is signed through the upcoming 2009-2010 season and intends to play for Finland in the 2010 Winter Olympics. Niedermayer still needs to negotiate a new contract to finalize his spot on the Anaheim roster.
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