Forsberg determined to make an impact in the NHL again

Peter Forsberg has had injury problems but wants to come back to the NHL this season.

Peter Forsberg is back on the ice with his hometown team Modo of the Swedish Elite League and is not just determined to return to the NHL, but also being as effective as possible.

In an interview released by the team, Forsberg commented on his intentions.

“I want to come back, seriously come back, and I don’t want the injuries to determine when I retire. But if it isn’t going to work this time, I’ll have to live with it, but as I said, so far, everything feels good.”

Forsberg has been dogged by foot and ankle injuries since finishing last season in Nashville, and many have questioned what kind of an impact he could have if he was able to return to the NHL.

“Look at (Mats) Sundin, he’s 36 and playing the hockey of his life. I’m not going to make a comeback and be useless.”

The team doctor also commented on Forsberg’s progress, noting that his ankle is holding so “nothing’s stopping him from taking it up a notch.”

“I have to stay positive, it wouldn’t work otherwise,” Forsberg said. “So far things are looking good. I’m in touch with my doctor all the time, and I follow the schedule we have set up.”

The LG Games, a Swedish national team tournament, begins on Feb. 7. While this was expected to be the start of his comeback, Forsberg doesn’t deem it necessary.

“LG Hockey Games comes a little too early, as it looks like now, but we’ll see. It’s not crucial for me to be there if I want to make a comeback.”

An unrestricted free agent, Forsberg has the option to sign with any team up until Feb. 26.

Forsberg has 871 points in 697 career NHL games with Quebec, Colorado, Philadelphia and Nashville. He was originally selected sixth overall in the 1991 NHL Entry Draft by the Flyers.

He has won two Stanley Cups, both with the Avalanche, and has earned a Hart and Art Ross Trophy as well.