July 2nd was a sad day for me as a Ducks fan. My favorite player decided not to re-sign with the team he had played his entire career with. After 9 seasons and 594 games, it is all over. I read an article quoting Brian Burke about negotiations between he and Salei. Salei wanted a 3 year deal and Burke said he couldn’t do that. I am sure the means he wanted to upgrade his second defensive pairing in the coming seasons.

Francois Beauchemin sure made him expendable he kind of does everything Salei does, but with more offense and less penalties. We know he is tough, just ask Iginla (…ride the cliché). Beauchemin comes at a cheaper price too and wont be able to command much when he is due for a new contract. So all and all, the best deal for the team was made.

I just feel sad though. When Selanne was traded to San Jose, Salei became my new favorite Duck and was even after Selanne came back. I enjoyed watching his gritty play, he always played to the point where he would almost punch someone, but didn’t.

A sad day indeed, I hope he does well though. I hope that when the team does well this season, they don’t forget about him. I also hope that they thank him with some kind of video tribute like they did with Selanne and Keith Carney.