Rangers WIll Not Get In Bidding War For Richards (Updated)

Update, 9:16 a.m.:
Darren Dreger at TSN says not to expect Richards to make a decision before late afternoon or tonight.

Meanwhile, Richards tweets that he will be very open-minded today.

Original Post:
Larry Brooks at the New York Post reports that Glen Sather is likely to offer Brad Richards up to six years for up to an average of $7 million per in a dramatically front-loaded offer, but will not get into a bidding war for the All Star center...

"If that's not enough, however, it is unimaginable that the Garden will throw more (and more and more) at No. 91 to entice him to play Broadway.

If it's truly going to take an eight- or nine-year front-loaded deal worth between $55-60 million to sign Richards -- Buffalo is believed preparing an offer even larger in scope -- and if Richards is going to need a match to become a Ranger, Sather will hold on to his cash for a later day and another option."

Richards' agent, Pat Morris, has implied that his client might not commit today.

Despite this, Arthur Staple at Newsday still feels that the Rangers are the favorites, while Scott Brunside at ESPN isn't so sure.

...whether you want Richards or not I think we can all agree that Sather getting into a bidding war is not what the Rangers need. Put an offer out there and say if you really want to be a Ranger these are the terms you need to accept. And if he doesn't, move on.

...one thing I have seen mentioned about Richards the last few days that makes me even more suspect about him is his dislike for the spotlight. Many observers feel he is unlikely to sign in Toronto because of the media scrutiny. And while New York doesn't comparing to what he'd have to deal with in Canada the New York media is relentless and you have to wonder if he'd be able to handle it here either.

Remember to follow me on Twitter & Facebook or e-mail me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .