The Sports Corner

Why it’s not about the money for Mats Sundin

“Cash grab”, “pure greed”, and “money over cup” are just several of the bitter comments made by fans when it comes to Mats Sundin’s decision to sign with Vancouver on Thursday.

But they could not be more wrong.

Sure, this entire saga has dragged on for way too long, it’s boring, it’s not worth it, blah blah, but in the end, the Canucks are a better team with Sundin and the league’s top free agent since July 1 is finally off the market.

Whether you think he is a good fit on Vancouver or not, you can be sure that his final decision was not about the money whatsoever. Here’s why.

It’s not about the money because…he took a one year deal. If he wanted cash, he would take the two-year contract that Vancouver was offering him and swim in money, and it wouldn’t take him six months to accept. It’s ridiculous to think that his most important factor was about cash. Last time I checked, his name wasn’t Alex Rodriguez.

It’s not about the money because…he wanted a team that can compete, and as of today, Vancouver is tied for first in the Northwest Division, even though they have played without Roberto Luongo for three and a half weeks. Their offense is fourth in the West in scoring and with the addition of Sundin, they only get better. They don’t have to trade anyone for the free agent, nor do they have to alter the team chemistry. It’s the best scenario possible for both parties.

It’s not about the money because…he would have signed right when the two-year $10-million contract was offered. That’s a no brainer. So for those who still claim it’s about the money, open your eyes. Sure, the big numbers helped get his attention but that’s not what it came down to. He didn’t want a team that crossed their fingers, hoping he’ll take a paycut to join them, no he wanted a team that always had him as the number-one plan, and if they had to, would find a way to make room for him. And when it came down to it, the Rangers just couldn’t do that.

It’s not about the money because…he wanted respect, professionalism, and consistency, and that’s exactly what Mike Gillis and the Vancouver management provided throughout the process. They did not push him, they did not sway from their offer, and they treated him with class. Vancouver was patient throughout the whole six months and stuck to their word, what more could you ask for from a team that really wanted him?

It’s not about the money because…Vancouver has what it takes to win a Stanley Cup. Look, before you start laughing, think about it this way. No one can predict the finals, and no one can predict what happens in the playoffs, so to say that the Canucks won’t or will make it is obviously out of the question. But we can say whether or not Vancouver has the potential to make it there. They are one of the grittiest teams in the league, their defense is top-eight in the NHL, and they have one of the best goaltenders in Luongo - when he’s healthy. Now you add Mats Sundin - a point-a-game player - to an above-average offense, and the formula for success is improved. Not to mention that with the top opposing blueline pairings focusing on Sundin and potential linemate Pavol Demitra, the Sedins will probably have more room to work with and less pressure put on their shoulders.

In the end, time will tell if Vancouver can win a cup.

But to say that this was all about money is absurd. It’s ignorant. It’s irresponsible.

Maybe Sundin didn’t go to a club that was a sure-Stanley Cup winner, but at least he chose one that truly wanted him from the get-go.

Welcome to Vancouver, Mats.