Why Hasn't Sheppard Signed Yet?

Except one.

After the jump, some serous discussion, and some very much not serious discussion.

There are many reasons why an athlete might decide to hold off signing a contract at some point in their career. If they believe their contributions have been greater than the compensation being offered, if they feel they deserve a one way deal after toiling for years in the minors, or if they think holding out can get them any number of benefits.

It is difficult to believe that Sheppard, or his agent, are sitting around thinking that his six points in 64 games in 2009-10, his completely lost season to an ATV accident last year (that we hear may not be fully healed yet), or his career forty-nine points are worthy of a hold out. The only serious answer we can come up with is he wants a one way deal, but with the roster pretty much set, save for a couple spots being left open for competition, Sheppard needs to grasp the reality in front of him.

Having explored the logical (or not so much) reasons the deal might not be complete, we now turn to the completely irrational reasons. In comic sans for added emphasis.

For all of you asking (no one) why Sheppard has not signed yet, here is your explanation: he, or his agent, are delusional. There is no reason for him to not sign any deal the Wild are willing to give him. His NHL career is hanging in the balance, and it is time to face reality. Unless, of course, they really think he is worth Cam Barker money.

If you have a guess, rational or not, about why Sheppard has not signed, please add it in the comment section. Have fun. It's only July 28th. We still have 72 days until games that count.