Selanne Will Retire After Next Season

The Anaheim Ducks still have plenty of veteran presence on their team, despite the trade of defenseman Chris Pronger to Philadelphia.

Captain Scott Niedermayer and forward Teemu Selanne have both said they will return. For Niedermayer, the future is uncertain beyond next season. Selanne, meanwhile, says 2009-2010 will be his last year in the NHL.

The announcement comes on Selanne's 39th birthday.

Selanne, a 10-time all-star from Finland ... told daily Helsingin Sanomat that a man that age does not belong in a league like the NHL.

"It is a forum for young boys", Selanne said. "But the right diet, rest and muscle care help to prolong a career. Personally I am injury-free, I feel young at mind and pursue a lot of activities."

Selanne contemplated retirement but has decided to play for one more season.

"The next season is without doubt my last. This time my decision will be kept," he said.

It's been a storied NHL career for the "Finnish Flash". He's played over 1,200 games for four NHL teams, won a Cup with Anaheim in 2007, and has scored 614 career goals. With a healthy and effective season, Selanne could pass 650 goals for his Hall of Fame-caliber career.

More importantly, the return of both Selanne and Niedermayer to the Ducks means they have a very good chance of returning to Stanley Cup contention at least one more time before their real overhaul happens.