Sep 4, 2007, 17:29 GMT
San Jose, CA - Rather than retiring, Jeremy Roenick has decided to play a 19th season in the NHL, as the veteran center signed a one- year deal with the San Jose Sharks on Tuesday.
It was two months ago when Roenick told the Philadelphia Inquirer that he was ready to retire.
His new deal is reportedly worth $500,000.
'Jeremy Roenick is a tremendous competitor and he has a great love for the game of hockey,' Sharks general manager Doug Wilson said. 'We feel he can add something to our talented group of players on our club and we feel that this is an environment where Jeremy can be successful.'
The 37-year-old Roenick played with Phoenix last season and had 11 goals and 17 assists over 70 games.
'I'm very thankful for this opportunity to play for the San Jose Sharks,' Roenick said. 'They have a great team and I look forward to helping this group compete for the Stanley Cup.'
One of the greatest American ice hockey players in the history of the sport, Roenick needs just five goals for 500. He would become just the third U.S.- born player to achieve the feat, joining Joe Mullen and Mike Modano.
A nine-time NHL All-Star, Roenick has posted 495 goals and 675 assists in 1,252 NHL games with Chicago, Phoenix, Philadelphia and Los Angeles.
Roenick has made one trip to the Stanley Cup Finals, in 1992, when his Blackhawks were swept by the Pittsburgh Penguins.
© 2007 The Sports Network
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