A source tells Sportsnet.ca the Vancouver Canucks and New York Rangers are the leading contenders to sign Mats Sundin, but others teams also remain in the mix.

Sundin has indicated he hopes to a short list of teams he is interested in joining ready by as early as Dec. 15, though possibly as late as Dec. 26.

The Rangers are thought to be his first choice, but they have very little cap space. They would have to make a move to open room to sign Sundin. The Canucks made Sundin a very generous two-year, $20 million offer last summer to join them.

Sundin, who turns 38 Feb. 13, is training in California in preparation for his inevitable comeback.