" Bob Murray has made it clear how he visualizes Scott Niedermayer's future with the Ducks. As he has shown throughout his most recent seasons here, Niedermayer is much hazier about the issue.

At least that's how the Ducks captain projects himself publicly as he was noncommittal in his response to GM Murray reportedly saying he will not trade defenseman Niedermayer at the March 3 deadline even if the Ducks are not in the playoff picture.

Murray reiterated that Niedermayer will retire as a Duck whenever he decides to hang up his skates. Niedermayer has danced with retirement since his 31/2-month sabbatical after the 2007 Stanley Cup championship, but the decisions each summer to continue to play have been meticulous, and he isn't about to be rash now.

"You know, I haven't really thought a lot about that," Niedermayer said Wednesday. "I think when bridges come then you deal with them. I don't think there's any sense in worrying about that type of thing right now.

"If that bridge does come by one day, then you look at it. But right now, I'm more concerned about trying to have a good second half. Play as well as I can to help the team.

"That's really where 100 percent of my focus is. The other stuff? If it does come one day, it does. If not ..."

The added intrigue in this latest view of Niedermayer's future is the Ducks' 12th position in the Western Conference standings entering Wednesday's game against the Boston Bruins. Murray has been resolute in his loyalty to his captain, but Niedermayer would likely also bring in the biggest haul if the Ducks' fortunes go south and the team needs to rebuild."