Ducks captain Niedermayer returns with 1-year deal

Jul 1, 2009 - 7:57 PM ANAHEIM, Calif.(AP) -- Ducks captain Scott Niedermayer is staying in Anaheim after signing a one-year deal Wednesday worth $6 million plus bonuses.

Already a foregone conclusion that the star defenseman would be back, the Ducks made it official a few hours into the NHL free-agent shopping season.

"Keeping Scott Niedermayer in an Anaheim Ducks jersey was paramount for our club," general manager Bob Murray said in a statement. "We're extremely pleased he's chosen to remain with us and look forward to another great season from a Hall of Fame-bound player."

Niedermayer considered retirement before announcing his intention to return on Friday, prompting the Ducks to deal Chris Pronger to Philadelphia at the NHL draft.

The 35-year-old Niedermayer has spent four seasons with the Ducks. He earned the Conn Smythe Trophy when Anaheim won the Stanley Cup in 2007.

"I'm excited to continue my career with the Ducks," Niedermayer said. "I still enjoy the game and feel the opportunity to win is right here in Anaheim."

Niedermayer had 59 points - including 45 assists - in 82 games last season. In 1,183 career NHL games with New Jersey and the Ducks, he has 162 goals and 692 points.