lens selection

[firepix]

A few months ago I upgraded my Nikon collection a purchased a new Nikon d700 body. I'm a freelance news photographer and fire scene photograher. I'm looking to buy a zoom lens in the 70-200 range. I've read a lot on Nikons new vr2 70-200 2.8 lens and sounds like a great lens. It is a bit pricey though and I was wondering if anyone has had any luck on any other zooms from Nikon or one of the off brands. I know SIgma is out with a 70-200 2.8 but haven't heard much about it. Any help would be great.
Thanks,
Dan