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STOCKHOLM, Sweden – Colorado
Avalanche center Peter Forsberg announced today in Stockholm, Sweden that
he has decided to take a leave of absence from the game of hockey.
“I’ve made a tough decision; I just
feel that right now, in my current frame of mind I can’t go out and play
at the level I expect out of myself,” said Forsberg. “Over the last
few years, the numerous injuries and the recent surgeries made me come to
this decision. I understand the impact my decision will create, but I want
to be honest with myself. I love Denver, I love the fans and this
organization. I will truly miss everything.”
Peter’s agent, Mr. Don Baizley, made the
Avalanche aware of his decision late Friday night. Peter then met with
Colorado Avalanche owner Mr. E. Stanley Kroenke and President and General
Manager Pierre Lacroix to confirm his decision.
“We are shocked with his decision, but we
have to respect it,” said Colorado Avalanche President and General
Manager Pierre Lacroix. “Peter told me that he did not have the desire,
strength, and mental toughness to compete right now and wanted to step
aside.”
Fantasy Hockey Impact: HUGE!! Not
only is Forsberg a Top 5 pick in most Fantasy Hockey Leagues, he also
makes the players around him better. His loss will be felt on the Avs top
line as well. If the team wants to compete (without making a trade) they
will likely have to break up the top unit of Tanguay, Sakic and Hejduk.
One of the wingers will likely drop back to play with Chris Drury. The
only other question is 'Who will be the other wingers on the top two
lines?' At this point we'd guess that Niemenen and Reinprecht will pick up
significant playing time. Niemenen is a likely choice for the top line,
while Reinprecht may play wing on (or could even center) the 2nd unit.
Regardless, look for the production of a player like Drury to drop a bit.
While he is a very good player, he won't have one of the best players in
the world helping him out this year (at least not for the first few
months). If you're looking to take a moderate risk in your league, take
Forsberg in the late rounds of your draft. Most people will believe that
he is gone for the year. But we here at Puckjunkie feel that he may be
back by January so that he can play in the Olympics. If that's the case he
will probably play with the Avs in January and then continue with the team
after he plays for Sweden.
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