NHL Short Notes

Shanahan Not Ready TO Call It A Career 

After some serious thought 41 year-old power forward Brendan Shanahan has decided to put off retirement and sign a one year contract with the New Jersey Devils. Shanahan who has scored 656 career goals and 698 assists in his 21- year career has played for the New Jersey Devils, Hartford Whalers, St. Louis Blues, Detroit Red Wings and the New York Rangers. During his illustrious career Shanahan who was drafted second overall in 1987 by the Devils won three Stanley Cups (’97,98 and 2002) during his tenure with the Red Wings. This past season Shanahan didn’t sign until January when he finally signed with the Devils and had six goals and eight assist in only 34 games. While his production might have slipped due to age he can still provide some valuable leadership for the Devils.

 

Zherdev Becomes A Free Agent 

In a move that doesn’t happen very often the New York Rangers have decided to walk away from a salary arbitration verdict made on 24 year-old forward Nikolai Zherdev. Last season, which was his first with the Rangers Zherdev, scored 58 points and was a +6. Following what was his fifth NHL season Zherdev was looking for 4.75 from the Rangers and was awarded by the arbitrator a one- year pact worth 3.9 million. From the beginning New York was offering less than 3.2 million.

 

Williams Returns To Detroit 

This coming season forward Jason Williams will try to prove that yes you can come home again. Williams who started his NHL career with the Detroit Red Wings in 2000/01 dressed in 223 games during his first stint and also won a Stanley Cup with them in 2002. Williams who is 28 years-old was a Red Wing until February 26, 2007 when he was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks. Last season Williams was with the Atlanta Thrashers until January when he was traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Coming off a 47- point season this London Ontario native has agreed to a one -year deal With the Wings worth 1.5 million.