Peter Forsberg officially declared he will return to the NHL this season. He declined the chance to sign with MoDo, his SEL team, in order to maintain his 2007-08 NHL eligibility. Where will Peter the Great play? He certainly wants a shot at a Stanley Cup and will likely make that a priority in choosing where to sign. Let’s handicap the clubs in the running.

Ottawa-The Senators could sure use Forsberg to anchor a second scoring line. Ottawa has a real chance to win the Stanley Cup and Forsberg is good buddies with Sens’ captain Daniel Alfredsson. We believe the Senators are the favorites to ink Forsberg and post odds of 2-1 that they will do so.

Detroit-The Red Wings are the NHL’s best squad and realistically have an excellent chance to raise Lord Stanley’s mug. Henrik Zetterberg idolizes Forsberg, who may be flattered to play with the young star. The Wings are in a similar situation as the Senators—in need of a second-line scoring threat. We see Detroit as a solid 5-2 bet.

Vancouver-The Canucks have not been able to muster much offence when the Sedins aren’t on the ice, especially since Brendan Morrison’s injury. Signing Forsberg would solve that problem in a hurry. Playing with the talented twins from his homeland may appeal to Forsberg. GM Dave Nonis has pressure to bring in a scoring threat, and as a result, the Canucks are a strong bet to tie up Forsberg at 5-2.

Philadelphia-Forsberg knows the city well and is comfortable with the organization. He would be a fabulous mentor for young forwards Mike Richards, Jeff Carter, R.J. Umberger, Joffrey Lupul and Scott Hartnell. The problem is, that despite the significant strides the Flyers have made towards competency, they are not a Cup contender. We set Philly’s odds of signing Forsberg at 6-1.

We should know where Forsberg will sign within the next few weeks. Wherever he goes, make sure you pick him up as soon as you are able under your fantasy league rules. He is likely to play very well while he rounds into playoff form.