The addition of Jason Blake should make some Leafs fans smile, while others may be scratching their heads over not picking up Ryan Smyth.
But what has the addition of Blake for Toronto in comparison to the rest of the Eastern Conference.
The Rangers got better yesterday, while they still have three key free agents to consider in Brendan Shanahan, Sean Avery and restricted free agent, Henrik Lundqvist. The improvement up-front is dangerous, despite losing Micheal Nylander to the Oilers.
But they didn't address the defense and if Lundqvist falters, it could prove costly.
Philadelphia GM Paul Holmgren might want to start scratching his name in as Executive of the Year after bringing in Briere, in addition to Jason Smith and Joffrey Lupol from Edmonton.
Back to the Leafs, this is what Toronto has had to contend with, the makeover of the East.
Blake is a top-six forward that I considered 'selfish'. Perhaps as a goal-scorer, that selfishness could translate into goals, something Toronto will surely take more of next season.
With the addition, the Leafs stay up to date with the improving teams in the East, while seperating themselves from some other clubs.
Montreal did not make any big splashes in free agency, even though the attempts were genuine. The loss of Souray (unless he does re-sign) coupled with the lack of any big names still available, forces them to use homegrown talent, which may not be enough to make it into the playoffs next season.
They could still surprise and make noise, however. Their youth could come out looking for something to prove and make the club even more competitive, and making this July 1st free agent frenzy inactivity a forgotten memory and perhaps a blessing.
Blake gives Toronto offense on the front line, finally, a winger to compliment Mats Sundin, but can do things on his own. The versatility allows for Maurice to shuffle him through the lineup in the case of line juggling without worrying about production dips.
Is he the prime name Toronto fans would have liked to see at the ACC next season? Perhaps not, but with the limited space Toronto had to work with, John Ferguson Jr. has reformed this team in a little over a week.
Should a rumor of Pavel Kubina being shopped prove true and the defenseman is moved (something I am against), other additions could become a possiblity.
In comes Toskala, providing stability in goal. The best case scenario would be to send Raycroft to another club, yet to be seen.
So, given the state of improvement in the East, where does this leave Toronto?
Ottawa hasn't done much, similar to Montreal. The Devils, Islanders and Sabres all took hits to their roster. Has this weakened those clubs? Can they pull out some magic to replace the players that left?
Yet to be seen.
Has Toronto improved from last season?
Yes.
That has to be some inspiration for Leafs fans.
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