Before making any comments, alot of guys on here should think a bit first.
On the Kessel deal:
Kessel had a NTC with apparently only 8 teams available for trade.
According to TSN, teams were: Phi/Mtl/Chi/La/Min/Nyr/Bos/Pit
Basically, most of these teams have proper #1Cs and great rosters, or hometeam (Min) - all contenders (apart from Boston now maybe).
All of these teams were/are very close to capceiling, which made it almost obligatory to retain salary.
Leafs is finally building a TEAM instead of trying to get a few good players together.
Kessel and Phaneuf are two players that need to go in order to turn the page.
'Salute-gate' might seem like a small thing, but is very telling for the mindset of these players - unacceptable for any organization.
It's a great deal, a top prospect in Kapanen, a good young D in Harrington who has leadership skills. Plus an additional 3rd line player in Spaling and two good picks.
the UFA signings very good as well:
Hunwick I already called yesterday (advanced stats; great 6/7 D-man for next 2 years). Arcobello serviceable 3rd line C who is good on PP. Parenteau had 1st line posession stats as well; a bit of a gamble for first line replacement, but could work out well - apparently Babcock believes in him.
Anybody saying today was a bad day for the Leafs, clearly does not understand the direction this organization wants to go, nor the dynamics of the NHL.
As said, to list: Trade Phaneuf, Trade Lupul. Probably trade Bozak as well. Maybe sign Winnik/Santorelli.
I would not be surprised if Leafs proceed and offersheet Galchenyuk (1st-2nd-3rd round pick compensation); they have 'backup picks' in first and 3rd round in 2016 already, maybe adding with additional trades.
Great Great day for the Leafs!
