Anaheim, CA (Best E Casino) - The Anaheim Ducks announced that veteran defenseman Scott Niedermayer will return to the team for the 2008-09 NHL season.

Niedermayer, a four-time Stanley Cup champion, helped lead the Ducks to their only Stanley Cup championship in 2007, winning the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player.

A native of Cranbrook, British Columbia, Niedermayer has appeared in 209 games with Anaheim since signing as a free agent in 2005, collecting 36 goals and 121 assists.

Last season Niedermayer did not join the Ducks for training camp while contemplating retirement and signed during the season. He finished with eight goals and 17 assists in 48 games.

"It's no secret what Scotty has meant to this organization over the past three years," said Ducks general manager Brian Burke. "Needless to say, we are thrilled he's returning to play for the upcoming season."

The 34-year-old blueliner has been named to five NHL All-Star teams during his 17-year career and was the Norris Trophy winner, making the NHL's best defenseman, in 2004.

"I had a great time last season after returning to the team," said Niedermayer. "I'm excited about having another opportunity to win, and fully expect this team to be competing for another Stanley Cup next spring."

Since making his NHL debut in 1991-92, Niedermayer has scored 148 goals and accumulated 485 assists with New Jersey and Anaheim. He is also the only player in hockey history to have won a Stanley Cup, Olympic Gold Medal, World Championship, World Cup, Memorial Cup and World Junior title.