Adding Fuel to the Fire

It is amazing how many trade rumors are already swirling around, considering the Stanley Cup was only won by the Blackhawks two days ago. For instance, today TSN has reported that the New Jersey Devils are expected to make a major push for Leafs defenseman, Tomas Kaberle at the draft. This has led to speculation as to what the Devils might offer for the offensive defenseman.

On AM 640's Leafs Lunch, Darren Dreger and Bill Watters discussed the fact that Dale Tallon, the new GM of the Florida Panthers, is ready to start a fire sale in Florida, with Nathan Horton and Stephen Weiss apparently on the trade block. This led to discussions as to whether the Toronto Maple Leafs would target the Panthers as a possible trade partner to acquire some much needed offense.

Then James Duthie of TSN, through his Twitter account, raised an interesting fact about Jonathan Toews and the effect of his winning the Conn Smythe Trophy. According to Duthie, Toews has recieved a $1.3 million bonus for winning the Conn Smythe in this years playoffs. Because the Blackhawks are already at the cap ceiling for the 2009/2010 season, it will be added to their cap for next season. This means that GM Stan Bowman will have an even tougher time trying to cut salary to re-sign some key players. But, finding cap room for a player bonus for winning the Conn Smythe is something any GM would love to do after winning the Stanley Cup. Link to James Duthie's Tweet: http://twitter.com/tsnjamesduthie/status/15871135386

On a day where I thought focus would still be on the Chicago Blackhawks winning their first cup in 49 years, trade rumors have been stired up and have certainly picked up steam. It is looking like this offseason will be an interesting one.