ANAHEIM, California: Finnish superstar Teemu Selanne says he’s willing not to ever play again even if that means having to retire if the National Hockey League loses another season to a lockout dispute.
Selanne, who is in his third NHL lockout, says he will do whatever is necessary to ensure the long-term health of the game, including missing the whole season and ending his glittering 19-year career which has seen him score over 650 career goals.
“I would like to play more but if I don’t then I am still the happiest camper,” Selanne said at a joint Ducks/Kings practice skate at Anaheim Ice Arena.
“I am thankful I am able to play for such a long time and enjoy this game for such a long time.
“I don’t have to play one single game anymore. That’s why I feel this is not about me. It is about the future of the hockey.”
The 42-year-old says if the owners and players’ union don’t get a new collective bargaining agreement by the end of December then the entire season will be lost. AFP
