Teemu Selanne still waiting for knee to get stronger
This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.
Ducks General Manager Bob Murray said Tuesday that winger Teemu Selanne “wants to come back and play from a mental perspective,” but the 41-year-old Finn wants to fortify his surgically repaired knee before deciding whether to return for another season.
“He is working out on and off the ice and trying to strengthen his knee. It’s not quite where he wants it yet,” Murray said Tuesday via email. “He wants to make a decision prior to training camp.”
Camp will open next week for teams across the NHL. The Ducks are due to report for medical tests on Sept. 16 and take to the ice on Sept. 17.
Murray said Selanne’s eagerness to play is “definitely a positive,” but the knee must improve before he makes a decision. In the meantime, Selanne is skating and doing off-ice conditioning work. “I’m optimistic, but certainly understand him not wanting commit unless the knee is straightened out,” Murray said. “I’m going to talk to him again later this week and see how he is progressing.”
Selanne underwent surgery on his left knee after scoring 31 goals and 80 points in 73 games last season. He’s an unrestricted free agent but has repeatedly said he would play only for the Ducks if he returns for the upcoming season.
RELATED:
Two-year deal will take Bob Miller to 40th season with Kings
Kings give Drew Doughty options on length of contract
Ducks’ Jonas Hiller expects to attend training camp
-- Helene Elliott