Training Camp Surprises

With training camps starting to open on Tuesday, we thought we'd list a few of our thoughts heading into the pre-season.

1. Scott Niedermayer hasn't made a decision on retirement. For a guy with supposedly so much class, this is nothing but a distraction (and arguably a detriment) to his team.
   
2. Teemu Selanne hasn't made a decision on retirement. Unlike Niedermayer, Selanne is a free agent and is entitled to do what he likes. You have to wonder if the Niedermayer decision (or lack of decision) is also impacting what he does.
   
3. Ray Emery still looking for medical clearance. This was kept very quiet throughout the off-season, but Emery still hasn't received clearance from his doctor to resume playing after his wrist surgery. Here's hoping that it's just a formality.
   
4. What's going to happen in the Leafs' crease? With Vesa Toskala and Andrew Raycroft in camp, there will be a real dogfight for "pipe time" during the pre-season. Someone better establish themselves as the undisputed #1 or it will make for a very uncomfortable October.
   
5. Are the Oilers good enough to keep from handing Brian Burke a good lottery pick? Heading into camp there are many who wonder if the Edmonton Oilers are good enough to make the playoffs. There are those who even think that the loss of Jason Smith on the backend will make them even more vulnerable. And more importantly, after losing a 2008 1st, 2nd and 3rd to Anaheim to sign Dustin Penner, they better hope they don't end up giving the Ducks the top pick in next year's draft.