LOS ANGELES - The Anaheim Ducks may have to wait at least one more game before getting Scott Niedermayer back in the lineup.

The Conn Smythe Trophy-winning defenseman, who had been contemplating retirement since the Ducks defeated the Ottawa Senators for the Stanley Cup in June, announced last week that he would return to the team.

It was anticipated that Niedermayer would make his season debut Wednesday when the Ducks host the Vancouver Canucks, but that likely won't be the case.

According to a a report on the Los Angeles Times' web site Wednesday, Niedermayer has yet to practice with the team, and the club still needs to find a way to fit him under next year's salary cap.

Considering these hurdles, Niedermayer's return will likely be pushed back to either Friday or Sunday.

Along with the question of whether he is physically ready for action, there are financial matters the Ducks need to address before Niedermayer takes the ice.

To reinstate him to the active roster, the Ducks first must clear about $900,000 to fit him under next year's salary cap.

According to the Times, the Ducks may be shopping defensemen Mathieu Schneider, Francois Beauchemin and Sean O'Donnell.

Money saved by moving one or more of those players also could allow the Ducks to sign Teemu Selanne, another player who is expected to make a decision about retiring some time in January.

Don't miss this on MSNBC.com Pass it on: Sons of infertile men may be next The eight biggest Olympic marketing debacles Reality show judges range from wise to wacko Cosmic Log: Is this your jetpack? Forget your inhibitions: World's sexiest islands

MORE FROM PACIFIC (ANA, DAL, LA, PHX, SJ)

NHL suspends Stars' Neal for 2 games

NHL suspends Stars' Neal for 2 games Kings' Smyth out a while with upper body injury NHL, Glendale officials discuss Coyotes' future Opinion: Marleau still leading way for Sharks Opinion: As Kopitar's stock rises, so do Kings Opinion: Coyotes playing like a team on a mission Opinion: Credit Gretzky for making great move Vote: Will Gretzky coach again in the NHL? Opinion: Say farewell to Phoenix as a NHL market Opinion: Heatley deal could be a steal for Sharks   Add Pacific (Ana, Dal, LA, Phx, SJ) headlines to your news reader: