Mats Sundin Signs With Canucks
Dobber Sports
2008-12-18
Mats Sundin has agreed to a one-year deal worth $10 million (when pro-rated), according to TSN.
On Mats Sundin: The earliest he can play, due to tomorrow's roster freeze, is December 27. This means he can play 46 contests this season, so he should be good for 45 to 50 points. He brings the high-end scoring threat up front that the team has desperately needed.
On the rest of the Vancouver roster: The team has about $7.5 million in cap space and with Sundin missing 36 games, he will only take up about $5.6 million – so they have the room.
His arrival pushes Kyle Wellwood to the third line and ensures that Pavol Demitra will be a winger going forward. His very presence should increase the production of the Sedin twins and Demitra by 10 percent or more. I can't see Wellwood slowing down, but I don't think this signing helps him. Taylor Pyatt should get back on track and will see a big jump in production now that there is another high-end option to play with. Steve Bernier and Mason Raymond also stand to benefit – my money is on Bernier.