Sundin Out, Shanny In?

According to NY Newsday, The New York Rangers have informed Mats Sundin that he has until Tuesday (September 16th) to make up his mind on whether he will join the club.

The longer Sundin waits to make a decision the greater the chances are he will end up back with the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Canadians have already dropped out of the Swedish sweepstakes by trading for Robert Lang and The Rangers seem ready to move on to other signings which may include sure fire hall of fame winger Brendan Shanahan.

Shanahan has made it obvious that he is most interested in playing with the blue shirts, while turning down offers from other franchises which included The Flyers, Dallas Stars and St. Louis Blues. Even more obvious is Sather holding off on that signing while waiting for Sundin to choose where or if he will be playing hockey again.

It's true Ranger fans may feel Shanny's offensive game is easily replaceable at this point but looking at all the new faces in the dressing room it may not be his legendary shot that proves most valuable.

With the changing roster Shanahan's leadership will be more valuable than the 18-22 goals he will probably put in the back of the net. A one year signing to stabilize the new personalities and set up Drury to take over the room in a year will be well worth the investment.