An excerpt from Hockeybuzz.com (Eklund):

Sundin Update

Multiple sources are saying that the recent optimism that we are seeing tonight has come from the fact that Mats Sundin has indeed decided to play hockey this season.

In Vancouver radio reports are rampant that Mats is “really really close to signing with the Canucks.” and indeed sources are indicating to me that the entire Canucks organization has locked it down and zero’d in on “some kind of Mats news that was surprising and came unexpectedly.

“How intriguing has this become?

In Montreal meanwhile, behind a fortress of steel and electric fences, it would appear as though the Canadiens too have become renewed, although not as much nor not as openly enthusiastic as the Canuacks staff.

But then again the Habs are always reserved and always in shut down mode.

Either way it is blatantly obvious that “something big has happened tonight and that something has been told to the Canadiens and Canucks, and has given both teams a reason to believe that each has a definite shot at this.

One source speculated, “If I didn’t know better I would say Mats told them that it is between the two of them and that they should both put forth their finest offer and in 7-10 days Mats will decide.”

I continue to hear that Mats is leaning towards wanting to do a “one off” deal in case things dont work out. This is an option many of his peers have opted for as well at this point in their careers

Habster:

Like any Habs fan, I just want Mats Sundin to make a decision sooner rather than later regardless what he decides!!!

I have to admit if Sundin decides to sign with the Canucks, then I have lost a bit of respect for the future Hall of Famer. He definitely won’t win a Stanley Cup with Vancouver (nothing personal Canucks fans!!), let alone get into the playoffs.

I would have more respect for him if he decided to leave substantial money on the table and signed with a team like Detroit Red Wings or the San Jose Sharks who have limited cap space but are true Stanley Cup contenders like the Canadiens.

Mats Sundin has had a great career with tons of individual accomplishments and has earned close to $ 80 million during his NHL career. With individual awards and money being non-issues, I’m sure Mats is looking for a Stanley Cup ring to cap off his career and ride into the sunset with his head held higher.