The Decision: Teemu Selanne to Decide Next Week
By Sean
May 12, 2013; Anaheim, CA, USA; Anaheim Ducks right wing Teemu Selanne (8) moves into position against the Detroit Red Wings during the second period in game seven of the first round of the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Eric Stephens of the Orange County Register had the fortune of sitting down with Teemu Selanne to discuss his future. Selanne stated that he will make a decision on whether to play or to retire sometime next week. In that same interview, Selanne said that if he comes back, he will want to play top-six forward minutes. Here are some quotes from Selanne from this interview:
"“My point is, if they’re better than I am, I am expecting and accepting a smaller role,” Selanne said. “But if I’m better, I need to play more. I need to play top minutes. That’s what I’m looking for.“That’s fair for everybody. To be honest, I’ve been playing a big role. I don’t know if I’m ready to play 10-12 minutes a game. And that’s what I want to make sure. If I play well, I get what I deserve.“Sometimes it’s not like that. So I want to make sure I’m treated the way I deserve.”"
So, is Teemu still a top-six forward? I don’t know. He didn’t exactly play all that well last year, but that could be attributed to him have different linemates every other night. In my opinion, he should get top-six minutes, at first. If I was Bruce Boudreau, I would have the first few games of the regular season as almost a tryout for Teemu. He would need to show me that he can still play at a top-six forward in this league because right now, I don’t believe he can.
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