Mats Sundin and The Toronto Maple Leafs: If You Love 'em Let 'em Go

Hello to the world of Leaf fans.

For 13 NHL seasons, Sundin has dedicated himself to the mediocre Maple Leafs and has not made one complaint. During times of questionable play and down right crappy performances, he always showed prosperity and perseverance. Yet why after 13 years of his devotion do we as fans have the right to tell him he's not allowed to sign somewhere else?

I know it is not the fault of the fans directly. In fact, many would speculate it is the head office caring about monetary success over season standings instead.

Before you put all the blame on the front office, think of who's at fault when you buy that $800.00 Leaf ticket to watch them get romped by the Sens 8-1. How about the Leaf slippers you bought for a family member last Christmas?

MLSE shareholders are laughing.

They hold the leash and we are at the end of it. The sad thing is, it doesn't have to be this way. We could be holding the leash.

And don't think MLSE giving a free game to its fans makes up for all the years lost. I feel I've let down Sundin as much as every Leaf fan should feel. I would hate to say it, but I really think Sundin has wasted his career with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

He's a diamond in a bed of rocks and although his past performances will shine, it saddens me that he will not have a Cup to show for it.

If another team is capable of taking him the distance, then I would be the first to stand behind him. Let's not give the 'big wigs' of MLSE the right to speak for us. If he wants to come back, our arms will be open, but if he chooses to leave then that's his right.

He has given us his career and his life the past 13 years, yet really, what have we given him?