Sakic is Probably Done and its OK

From Spector’s Hockey:

During the second intermission "Satellite Hotstove" segment on Hockey Night in Canada panelists Pierre LeBrun, Scott Morrison and Al Strachan discused the following:  Joe Sakic could be close to making a decision about his future and there's no certainty he'll return to the Avalanche for another season...

Spector also think that Joe is done:  “Sakic's been waylaid the past two season with back problems so it's doubtful he'll return for another season.”

I agree.  At the start of last offseason, I expected Sakic to return.  At the start of this offseason, I never felt like Sakic would return.  Really, what incentive does Super Joe have?  He’s a lock for the Hall of Fame, two Cups, a Conn Smythe, a Hart, Olympic Gold, etc.  Oh, and plus he’s got those 8 OT winners.  What else is there for him to accomplish?  

And maybe more importantly, he keeps getting hurt.  

The only half plausible reason to keep playing is so that he can play for Team Canada in the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics.  But Sakic’s skills have diminished.  I’m not even certain that he’d even accept an offer to play for Team Canada given that long list of Canadian star centers in the prime of their careers.  

I also think its the right thing for the team.  Over the last couple of seasons, we already gotten used to the Avs, “post Sakic“.  No one plans for the bottom to fall out like it did, but with the pink slip bonanza that took place last week, there is no question that this team is in full rebuilding mode.  Future 3rd pick (i.e. Duchene / Tavares / Hedman) along with Stastny, Wolski, Stewart, Jones, Galiardi, Shattenkirk - this is the group that needs to come together, take center stage and find its way.  Find its own identity, build its own excitement, figure out how to win.  

Sure, Sakic’s leadership would only help this group.  But his $6M/year salary won’t help bring in a UFA goalie.  And his ailing back won’t allow him to stay on the ice very long.  Footer, Smyth, Hejduk and (hopefully) Lappy can provide veteran guidance to the young core.  

Super Joe, its been a fantastic run.  It is going to be really weird seeing another Avs player wear the C.  See you at the number retirement ceremony, buddy.