There are so many issues intertwined. It's a tough situation for the player, it's a tough situation for the team.

Two years ago, he was on course, and then had some injury issues the next year that held him back. He had a good year last year, and these days, the key to this coming season is to build on what he started last year.

Gerry is a great, tough player and does a lot for the team. Whoever is guarding him is going to have a tough assignment.

They've got bigger issues to deal with. We're in a tough situation because we don't want to pressure them either. We'll probably find out Sunday night, just like everyone else.

It's always a tough situation when a great player has to retire. He's meant so much to not only the National Hockey League, but the city of Pittsburgh and that franchise. You don't replace players like Mario Lemieux. He's a great hockey player and a good person. The game will miss him.

When it comes to Roger Clemens, I have to be optimistic.