The Avalanche may not have either of its two biggest stars and drawing cards -- Joe Sakic and Peter Forsberg -- for a portion of the 2008-09 season, if at all.

Both players are unrestricted free agents, but will either play for the Avalanche or retire.

Sakic still hasn't decided whether to return for a 20th NHL season or to call it a career, and his decision might not come until just before training camp starts in September.

"When I make my decision, it's my decision," Sakic said. "I don't want to waver. If you announce something, make a decision one way or the other and then change your mind... it's not really fair.

"I wanted to know by now. I wanted to know in June. I'd like to know for sure before training camp. I'm not going to want to miss training camp and come back later in the year. If I'm playing, I'm playing the whole year, going to training camp and being a part of the team."

Meanwhile, the Swedish newspaper Expressen reported that Forsberg has a muscle problem in his right foot that has been the root of his health troubles in recent seasons, and he will need several months of rehabilitation for a chance to salvage his career.

The paper quoted Forsberg as saying he doubts he would be ready for training camp.

Forsberg's Swedish doctor, Bertil Romanus, has mapped out a rehabilitation program that is expected to take several months. Forsberg, 35, has started the program and said he likely wouldn't be available to play before Christmas.

A muscle on one side of Forsberg's foot doesn't work normally because a muscle on the other side of the foot has caused an imbalance. Forsberg told the paper that he can walk and even run without a problem but has trouble when he puts on a skate.

If the latest program doesn't work, Forsberg told the paper, "Then I'm happy with the career I've had."

The Avalanche is giving Sakic all the time he needs to make his decision and isn't commenting on Forsberg's situation.

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