Chicago Blackhawks part with Finnish goalie after Stanley Cup victory

Antti Niemi unable to reach agreement on contract; becomes free agent

Antti Niemi

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The National Hockey League's much-talked-about salary cap claimed a Finnish victim on Monday, when the Chicago Blackhawks, winners of this year's Stanley Cup, agreed to part company with their goalie Antti Niemi after he became too expensive a proposition.
      Niemi was released and made an unrestricted free agent following a ruling by an arbitrator that the 26-year-old, who played a significant part in the Blackhawks' play-off successes earlier this year, should be paid USD 2.75 million this coming season, up appreciably from the USD 800,000 he earned as a rookie.
     
This was too rich for Chicago's blood, and they reluctantly let the goaltender go.
      Niemi can now sign a contract with any team he chooses.
      In spite of his Stanley Cup endeavours, the player is neverthless not regarded as a top-of-the-range star goalie and the sum set by the arbitrator - after salary talks stalled between Niemi and Chicago - may be too much for some potential candidates in the NHL.
     
For all that, at least the Washington Capitals, San Jose Sharks, and Edmonton Oilers have been rumoured to be taking an interest.
      Last season's beaten Stanley Cup finalists the Philadelphia Flyers were also said to be on that list, but the rumours were scotched on Monday night.
      Some commentators were puzzled at Niemi's decision to effectively price himself out of contention in Chicago, as the cupholders are believed to have all the ingredients to be a strong candidate for further honours in the seasons ahead.
      Antti Niemi became the first-ever Finnish goalie to win a Stanley Cup medal when the Blackhawks overcame the Flyers 4-2 in the best-of-seven finals series in June. 


Previously in HS International Edition:
  Antti Niemi becomes first Finnish goalie to win Stanley Cup (10.6.2010)

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