Leafs Notes: Blake, McCabe Offered To The Islanders

The thirty general managers of the respective NHL teams are in Naples, Florida today and tomorrow, discussing some new rule changes for next year, but lets not kid ourselves.  There are several GMs in the Sunshine State with a different M.O.  Many are looking for a way to improve their hockey clubs for the playoff push.

Cliff Fletcher, on the other hand, has the talk of gauging the market to see what is out there for the players he has.  However, as Cliff said today he doesn't necessarily hold all the cards, seeing as many of his best assets have no trade clauses.  Nonetheless it was a pretty eventful day one for the Leafs GM.  Here are some of the highlights:

McCabe, Blake Offered To NYI

As first reported by Darren Dreger and Bob McKenzie on TSN tonight, both Cliff Fletcher and Islanders general manager Garth Snow confirmed the two talked this past Thursday about a deal that would involve Bryan McCabe and Jason Blake.

Though it has not been stated by either who the Isles would be sending back the other way, it appears that Cliff Fletcher would like to re unite McCabe and Blake with Long Island.

McCabe, who is one of the many assets with that dreaded no trade clause, has apparently told Fletcher he would waive his no trade clause to facilitate a move back to New York, where it has been much publicized he and his wife would like to make their permanent residence.  Blake meanwhile would be re united with head coach Ted Nolan, who brought the best out of the speedy winger during their time together in New York.

Apparently the stumbling block right now is what Cliff is asking in return for the pair.  Garth Snow apparently feels it is too high. 

With so many questions surrounding Sundin and Kaberle (which we will talk about in just a minute) this appears to be a trade to keep an eye on.  McCabe claiming he is willing to waive his NTC is certainly half the battle. 

Anaheim Leads The Way For Sundin

While it remains to be seen whether or not Mats will waive his no trade clause (and in my

opinion we won't know until deadline day, or the night before) Anaheim appears to be leading the way in the chase for Sundin.

It is said that Fletcher sees potential in Anaheim's deal, which includes Edmonton's first round pick, Bobby Ryan, and some other picks or prospects.  

However, with the news that Peter Forsberg is unlikely to return this year, several teams (Philadelphia being one) are expected to step up and set their sights on the big Swede.

Kaberle To Stand Firm

Many insiders are insisting that the Maple Leafs are receiving as much interest in Tomas Kaberle as they are Mats Sundin; however, it appears that Kaberle will stand firm.  Kaberle's agent said that he asked his players two weeks ago, two days ago, and even two hours ago, and Kaberle was firm on not waiving the NTC.  Kaberle is a young guy, in his prime and he wants to be part of the rebuild and eventual resurrection of the franchise.

Trade Deadline Day Bash

Just a reminder we are just over one week away from the NHL's trade deadline day, which is February 26th at 3 PM.  

I will be providing Bleacher Reports official Deadline Day coverage as I will be live blogging all day long.  I will have live updates all day from 8 AM to the 3PM deadline and beyond, to keep you, the Bleacher Report faithful, in the know on a day that could very well change the course of the NHL's playoffs, and the future of other franchises.

Next Game:

Toronto Vs Columbus

Game Time:

7:30 on Sportsnet Ontario

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