Forsberg delays talk of extension

[Jlg-28]

Source : Couier Post.com

Now that Simon Gagne has re-signed for five years and coach Ken Hitchcock has been inked for three more seasons, the Flyers can turn their attention toward re-signing Peter Forsberg.

Last week the Flyers named Forsberg the 15th captain in team history and they have made it clear at least to Forsberg they want him to remain in Philadelphia beyond this season, when his two-year, $11.5 million contract is set to expire.

Forsberg, who turned 33 in July, said he's told general manager Bob Clarke he wants to test out his reconstructed right foot before committing himself to a contract extension.

"I told them I have to see how the foot feels at the start of the season and then well see what happens," Forsberg said. "Once I start playing we'll see if I'm worth the money I want to sign for."

Forsberg is the highest-paid player on the Flyers roster at $5.75 million this season. Groin injuries limited him to 60 games last season, but he still finished first on the team in assists (56) and second in scoring (75 points).

The Flyers likely would need to pay Forsberg $6 million a season for at least two more years to keep him from testing the free-agent market next summer, something neither side wants.

Gagne said Forsberg's willingness to re-sign with the Flyers played into his decision to sign a long-term contract last week.

"I'm not stupid," Gagne said. "I talked to Peter about it and I talked to Clarkie, too. Clarkie and I had a good talk and he said he wants to sit down and talk to Peter. I think the whole team would like to see it happen."

Forsberg's value is tied directly to his health. Last season the Flyers were 35-16-9 with him in the lineup and 10-10-2 without him.

"I don't want to leave," Forsberg said. "I hope they still want me."

------------------------------------------------------------------------

nice to see if everything goes well that peter would like to stay here in philly, so here is to hoping that all goes well.

[Ryan20]

Good to see. Hope everything goes well, and he resigns.

[Metalpuck]

****in' beautiful! That post made this ****ty day at work so much better! Keep hold of the dynamic duo at all costs Clarkie!!!! :D