RIP: Rumor in Progress: Mathieu Schneider

One of the rumors we have run into a lot this summer is the departure of Mathieu Schneider. Schneider did the best job he could filling the void for Niedermayer, but cannot be looked over for contributing to the trade of C Andy McDonald to St. Louis. 

I like Schneider. I think he is a good defensemen. However, with Scott Niedermayer back for his, most likely, last season, Schneider has been rumored to be off to another team. I have heard L.A. wants him, Phoenix will trade for him, and that Barry Melrose's mullet could see him in Tampa. 

My "dream on" trade would be Jussi Jokinen for Schneider and a 3rd round pick in 2009. That would free up some cap space for a possible Selanne re-signing. It would also give the Ducks something they have needed since the 05-06 season- power to win a shootout. The Tampa Bay Lightning lost Dan Boyle to San Jose. Sure, they picked up Matt Carle and some other picks, but they lost their Power Play Quarterback. With Pronger, Beauchemin, Niedermayer all on the power play for the Ducks, I think we can see the departure of Schneider. We need some more power up front. Brendan Morrison should help fill that void, but I will get to that another day. 

Schneider, we love you, but we would rather have Selanne + a younger forward. Nothing against you, but it would help out your fantasy team too.