Former Greats Fade Away

A few days ago, veteran forward Mark Recchi was waived by the Pittsburgh Penguins. Seeing another former great discarded in such a way got me thinking: What is happening to our veteran players? Has the salary-cap era put business before a man's dignity?

It started in 2004 with Dave Andreychuk. After 22 years of hard work he had finally lead the Lightning to a Stanley Cup victory. When hockey resumed in 2005, Andreychuk remained on pace for the same point totals he had the previous 4 years of hockey, but was waived. This is a disappointing and potentially embarrassing way for a former star player and captain of the team to leave the sport he loves.


John Leclair was put into a similar situation with the Penguins. After a fairly successful year in 2005-2006 (22 goals, 29 assists) he was waived 21 games into the following season. Granted his start wasn't very strong, but this is another former 50 goal scorer being tossed to the way-side in old age.

Luckily for Mark Recchi, he has another chance with the Atlanta Thrashers. Hopefully he can find new life with a new team and retire with some dignity when he feels he has given all he has. I hope in the future our beloved veterans can retire with pride and dignity rather than be forced out in the name of cap space.

And Gary Roberts....better pick up the pace, you could be next.