"New Avalanche general manager Greg Sherman said Thursday that many big player-personnel decisions remain before next season, but one that is out of his hands is whether captain Joe Sakic will play a 21st NHL season. Like his predecessor, Francois Giguere, at this time last year, Sherman is just waiting to hear from Sakic about his plans. "Joe can make the decision on his terms," Sherman said. "Certainly, Joe has earned the respect and the time to make his decision." Sakic, who turns 40 on July 7, missed all but 15 games last season because of back and finger injuries. He might have to take a sizable pay cut from the $6 million he made last season if he returns, because of Avalanche salary cap issues. Sakic has not been available for comment of late, but had said after last season's end that he would decide what to do sooner than he did last year. Sweden visit. Avs assistant general manager Craig Billington traveled to Sweden last week to visit with free-agent goalie Jonas Gustavsson, who has listed the Avs as one of three NHL teams he might sign with next season."