Bodog Beat

Is the man behind this beard ready to put the skates back on? (AP Images)

Sources close to Canada's TSN are saying that Scott Niedermayer is ready to play some hockey for the Anaheim Ducks.

"The Ducks do not have any salary cap issues this season that would prevent Niedermayer from re-joining the team. They have plenty of room below the $50.5 million salary cap, but that is not to say there aren't other financial considerations that could be problematic for the Ducks unless they trade a player.

"Sources suggest the Ducks are prepared to move any defenceman other than Chris Pronger who is under contract for next season. That list includes Mathieu Schneider, Francois Beauchemin and Sean O'Donnell."

All this despite the fact the veteran defenseman told the Ducks right after the team won the Stanley Cup that he was leaning toward retirement.

The Ducks are currently getting 9/1 odds to win the Stanley Cup. Load up now before Nieds makes his return.