Burke Fuels Blaze of Maple Leafs Rumors

Yesterday in Brian Burke’s interview with the FAN590, the big boss threw out some news for everyone to chew on. He also mixed up Mike Brophy with Daren Millard, and it was awesome. You can listen to the whole interview here.

A few things that Burke touched on:

Top Line Talent:

“We’ll get them (a first line player) through trade, the traditional route. Or we’ll look to sign someone through free agency.”

Not sure who Burke expects to sign through free agency, but like he stated in the interview, he will wait and see what other teams need to do with their cap situation, as it will obviously open up more avenues for the Leafs to explore.

“We need a forward who can score, preferably a good sized one.”

K-O-V-A-L-C-H-U-K… Almost impossible I know. A man can dream, right?

In all honesty, Frolov as a Leaf increases in probability literally overnight in my mind. If not, again, Nathan Horton becomes more of a possibility. Someone out there is a target, we all know that. A player in that 50-60 point range that is still in their twenties seems the most realistic.

About Tomas Kaberle:

“We have two inquiries about Tomas (Kaberle).”

I’m no rumor guy or visionary, but I have heard that one of the teams is the Ducks. Take it for what it’s worth—not a whole lot.

I really have zero idea who the other team could be. Some teams I believe would be in on Kaberle are Boston, Los Angeles, and Vancouver. Many throw St. Louis out there as well, but I’m not buying it.

If the Ducks are really involved, it does present the idea that they believe Scott Neidermayer is calling it quits or leaving town. I’ll wager more on the former.

Other notes from the interview:

Burke cheers Canadian teams unless they’re playing the Flyers.

Burke looks to open up discussion with the league about the instigator rule to deal with the “rats” in the league. Awesome.

Again, Kadri will have to add strength, but he has a legitimate shot at making the big club.

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