The former Toronto Maple Leafs captain announced his long-awaited decision on Thursday and ended months of speculation about where he would end up _ or if he would even return to play in North America _ by signing with the Canucks.

Sundin had considered retirement following last season, but a number of NHL teams still expressed interest in the his services. The Swede narrowed his choices in recent weeks to the Canucks and New York Rangers, who didn't have nearly enough cap space to compete with Vancouver's lucrative offer.

"I am truly excited to be joining the Canucks," the 37-year-old Sundin said. "Once I made the decision to return to play a few weeks ago, the Vancouver opportunity was simply the best overall fit. I want to thank (general manager) Mike Gillis and the entire Canucks organization for their professionalism throughout this entire process."

He has 555 goals and 766 assists in 17 seasons with the Quebec Nordiques and the Maple Leafs. Sundin became an unrestricted free agent at the end of last season and was courted by a half dozen teams.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed. The Canucks had offered Sundin a two-year, $20 million (13.7 million euros) deal but Sundin had repeatedly stated that he was only looking for a one-year contract. He earned $5.5 million with Toronto last season.

"We are very excited to have Mats join the Vancouver Canucks," Gillis said. "Playing previously in two Canadian markets and consistently being among team and league leaders in scoring, Mats has proven that he can excel under pressure.

"He adds a wealth of experience, leadership and skill to the Canucks."

Sundin was selected first overall in the 1989 draft by the Nordiques, becoming the first European ice hockey player to go No. 1.

The nine-time All-Star had 32 goals last season. He is the Maple Leafs' career leading scorer with 987 points (420 goals, 567 assists) and served as captain in 10 of his 13 seasons in Toronto.

Sundin is expected to join the Canucks right after Christmas, when he returns from Sweden. His agent, J.P. Barry, said Sundin should be ready to play in January.

"He has been training for several months off ice and skating almost every day this month," Barry said.