Veteran Trio Bolster Cup Hopefuls
Signing proven veterans to bolster teams hopeful of contending for the Stanley Cup trophy is not a new tactic, but a proven one. This season has already seen a triplet of spectacular returns to the National Hockey League:
The most talked about was of course ex Toronto captain Mats Sundin who, after a much protracted search for a new home, finally settled on Vancouver. With Sundin’s established leadership and skill, the Canucks can look forward to some interesting times come the spring. In addition to this big name signing they also added some depth to the goalie department by acquiring Jason LaBarbera from the Los Angeles Kings. He will add some competition to the spot while Roberto Luongo remains out and could fill in case of future emergencies or simply when Luongo needs a break between the pipes. These signings should help keep Vancouver fresh this spring, and with perhaps another signing or two, they could be true contenders this season.
The most sensational return however, was by 43 year old Claude Lemieux. The four time Stanley Cup, and Conn Smythe, winner – signed a deal with San Jose Sharks and will begin playing with their AHL affiliate Worcester Sharks. This to get him in trim after a five year absence from Hockey. He will bring a considerable wealth of experience when called in to action for San Jose – come the playoffs. He is expected to be called up after the March 4 deadline, when rosters can swell to 23.
“I didn’t go into this thinking I’d be on the top line or dominate or lead the team in playoff scoring, but I still think I can bring a lot as a role player,” Lemieux recently told the Edmonton Journal.
Undoubtedly he will bring valuable experience to the table, but will he still have the legs to keep up with opponents, or has perhaps time passed him by? Only time will tell.
The latest veteran to make a return to the league was Brendan Shanahan. 
Originally he had hoped to get a spot with his beloved Rangers, after his contract expired at the backend of last campaign, but finally had to give up as the New Yorkers couldn’t find any space or cap money for him. After taking his time it was finally the New Jersey Devils that came away with his signature. The 40-year old is expected to bring home a contract worth $ 1.5 million, earning just under half of that sum. General Manager Lou Lamoriello of the Devils said yesterday; that a contract would be worked out “in the next couple of days.” As the above mentioned veteran players, he’ll bring a wealth of experience to his new club. Certainly his arrival will be a real boost for the Jersey hopeful.
However, question is if the team won’t need more reinforcements, than merely an ageing Shanahan; if they want to be seen as legitimate contenders…
