After 15 seasons in the NHL, Markus Naslund is calling it a career. After a 35 year career, the former first round draft pick by the Pittsburgh Penguins, has citied dissatisfaction with his game as the main reason for hanging up his blades.
As a Canuck, Naslund enjoyed his best years in the league, playing with Todd Bertuzzi and Brendan Morrison. They formed a powerful line that led the Canucks and intimidated their opponents. Though his game has slowed down in recent years, Naslund is still an experienced veteran able to lead a team but not contribute as a top tier player. I tend to think that there are other factors at play with Naslunds decision. It may be a lack of chemistry, being at odds with Tortorella or the Sean Avery factor. I think you will see Naslund play in Sweden next year and on the Olympic team in 2010.
Fantasy owners of Naslund should be able to recover the loss of the winger. Since his best years are behind him, owners should concentrate on getting younger. There will be plenty of options in the off season as teams with too many keepers are looking to dump players for draft picks.
Mark
As a Canuck, Naslund enjoyed his best years in the league, playing with Todd Bertuzzi and Brendan Morrison. They formed a powerful line that led the Canucks and intimidated their opponents. Though his game has slowed down in recent years, Naslund is still an experienced veteran able to lead a team but not contribute as a top tier player. I tend to think that there are other factors at play with Naslunds decision. It may be a lack of chemistry, being at odds with Tortorella or the Sean Avery factor. I think you will see Naslund play in Sweden next year and on the Olympic team in 2010.
Fantasy owners of Naslund should be able to recover the loss of the winger. Since his best years are behind him, owners should concentrate on getting younger. There will be plenty of options in the off season as teams with too many keepers are looking to dump players for draft picks.
Mark
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