TSN reports Scott Niedermayer is returning for the final year of his contract.

The decision was made today after a morning talk with Anaheim Ducks GM Brian Burke. They have not stated any plans beyond next season.

The Ducks will once again be serious contenders for one more Stanley Cup run. Matthieu Schneider will most likely have to be moved to make cap room, which is a shame. He was one of the more reliable Ducks during the season, and any team would benefit from having him.

However, having a player of Niedermayer's caliber will help the Ducks improve their performance from last season. His retirement indecision had previously caused him to miss half of last season. He did not play until mid-December 2007.

At least this time, there won't be that soap opera going on behind-the-scenes.

Selanne would now be highly tempted to join Scott for one more try at returning the Stanley Cup back to California. This is important, since a major number of the roster's core will be facing restricted and unrestricted free agency next season. With the Ducks so close to the cap maximum, it is inevitable that some players will be finding a new homes after next season.

With the current legal drama going on with the team owners Henry and Susan Samueli, this is a breath of good news to Ducks fans.

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