Brendan Shanahan, Devils Part Ways

Brendan Shanahan's second stop with the New Jersey Devils -- and perhaps his career -- has come to an end, as the 40-year-old winger and the team have decided to part ways. Speculation started to mount early Thursday morning when the Shanahan was not at the morning skate, while Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger reported that the Devils had cut the 21-year-veteran (even though he's still a member of the roster ... as of now).

Chere quotes general manager Lou Lamoriello as saying the split was a mutual decision.

From the Star-Ledger:

"Over the past couple of days Jacques (Lemaire) and I have had conversations. The unexpected has transpired," Lamoriello said. "It's not that Brendan cannot play. It's that these (young) players have become something special at this time."

Shanahan also issued the following statement: "I have not decided to continue with the New Jersey Devils for my 22nd NHL season. When I signed this past summer, Lou Lamoriello, Jacques Lemaire and I agreed that if we were unable to find a suitable fit in which I would be able ti compete and contribute at the level I expect from myself, then I would simply step aside. I have great respect for Lou, Jacques and the entire Devils' organization. This decision is both mutual and amicable. I am planning to spend the next couple of weeks with my family to reflect on and evaluate my plans for the future. Most importantly, I would like to thank my former teammates and wish them the best of luck this season."

So, for now, the door remains open for a return to the NHL this season. While clearly not the player he once was, he should be able to contribute to something if he decides to continue his career. Just tossing names into a hat, I'd make a wild guess that a club like Montreal or Vancouver could find some use for him.

In 34 games with the Devils in 2008-09, Shanahan scored six goals to go with eight assists. In his 21-year career he's amassed 656 goals (11th most all-time and tops among active players), 698 assists and 1,354 points, while also being a member of three Stanley Cup winning teams in Detroit.