Alright, folks... Leafs trade Kris Versteeg, a 24-year-old player Brian Burke was so excited to acquire last summer, for draft picks. Goes entirely against the GM's stated plan. Are these picks to be flipped for established player? And, why wasn't Versteeg established enough for Leafs? I say he made it known he'd be happy to go to a contending team. He'll deny that. Your thoughts.
Maybe it becomes clearer in the days leading up to trade deadline. I cannot understand acquiring Joffrey Lupul one week, and trading Kris Versteeg the next. Something was at work here behind the scenes, though all we can do is speculate.
They are simply rumors because Brian Burke and Kaberle's agent, Rick Curran, have agreed to handle this situation on the Q-T. But, Kaberle would have to be deranged not to supply Burke a fairly extensive list of cities he'd consider going to for a few months, until July 1. If he simply wants to remain comfortable until then and not pack a suitcase for a playoff run elsewhere, then I'm not sure I'd want him anyway.
I like Kris a lot... as a player and a person. In suggesting he may have hinted at a change, I'm not criticizing him. Coming off a championship last spring, many of us would have considered doing the same. Look where he is now. With another legitimate chance at winning Stanley Cup. Pretty nice move.
Who the hell knows anymore! LOL
It didn't seem lacking last spring in Chicago.
With 19 games remaining after the Feb. 28 deadline, and with Gustavsson and Jussi Rynnas out of the picture temporarily, Burke made it clear he'll not likely try to move J.S. Giguere. But, I'm not sure Leafs would get much for him anyway.
Absolutely no chance Tampa will let Stamkos get away. Zero. Zorch. Nil.
What about re-signing Luke Schenn, Clarke MacArthur, Tyler Bozak and Carl Gunnarsson? Everyone thinks money is earmarked only for UFA market, but Burke will have to spend a fair chunk re-signing his own players. After that, I'll be shocked if he can land a biggie on July 1, though I'm certain he wants Brad Richards.
Nope. After the 10-game mark, I thought he adjusted well to added responsibility. But, he was up against it from the outset because so many expected him to be a front-line scorer with Leafs. Those people will consider him a disappointment, but that's not reality.
Longer than that.
It will likely be part of a bigger deal.
Yes, Brad Richards really is that good. Exceptional ice vision; soft set-up hands, and an eye for the net. He's a big-timer in every way. Will Dallas try to keep him? Can't imagine not making a huge effort, given the Stars' unanticipated fine season this year.
Lou Lamoriello would have gotten a good chuckle out of that.
Maybe. But, again, why wouldn't Jersey move heaven and earth to try and keep Parise. He is such a damned good player, and still young. Can't keep everyone under the cap, I understand, but the Zach Parise types do not grow on trees.
Yesterday. Just kidding. I'd have to look that one up. It's a really good question.
Besides Kessel, Phaneuf, Versteeg, Komisarek, Beauchemin, Giguere, Lebda, Orr, Bozak and Hanson, who has Burke overhyped?
Got to pay the Indians top dollar. But, the chiefs aren't suffering either.
Agreed. Though Stars' ownership issue is always a concern.
Spoken like a true Leaf fan! But, not a bad idea. Strike while the iron is hot, especially if you are concerned about a fuse blowing.
Hi Bobby.
No, no and no.
Yeah, but just for the past 44 years. Give it time.
