Sundin is a Canuck

That’s right folks, the great Mats Sundin is officially apart of the Vancouver Canucks organization as of Thursday, December 18, 2008!  Yes, it has been a lengthy wait, but oh boy was it ever worth it.  It was down to the New York Rangers and the Vancouver Canucks as the two final teams that Sundin was actually still interested in.  Vancouver got the edge and now Sundin will be practicing with the Canucks the day after Boxing Day.

It all started on July 1, 2008 when Canucks GM, Mike Gillis,  put a an offer valued at a whopping $20 million for 2 years out on the table.  Of course, Sundin was very flattered by the offer but did not take the bait just yet.  It was rumoured that at least 10 teams were interested in acquiring Sundin during the Summer.  Fast forward to almost 6 months later, after Sundin gave it much thought and chose Vancouver as the place to continue, and possibly finish, his NHL career.

I believe what Gillis said about the Sundin situation is very true to his nature and his personality as a individual.  Sundin did not snap up the $20 million right away, which would be horrible for his reputation.  Instead, it took some thought, 6 months of it, to carefully decide his future in the NHL.

Myself, I am stoked that Sundin is actually coming to town.  Honestly, I thought he was a long shot seeing that Naslund left to the Rangers and that he would want to try an American franchise.  Was I ever wrong.  Apparently we won’t see him play until after the New Year because of some NHL regulation I believe, but he should be practicing with the Canucks by December 27th.  Rumours have stated that Sundin will play with Demitra and Wellwood, one of his old line mates from the Leafs.  It would be amazing if he could play with the Twins on the powerplay at least.  Wow!  The Canucks can have a all-Swede line, Sedins, Sundin, Ohlund, and Edler.  The New Year just can’t come any sooner can it?