Maple Leafs Notes: Ron Wilson Officially Offered Job, Blake Wheeler on Radar?

Wilson Offered Coaching Job, Contemplating Offer

Several sources, including TSN, are reporting that the Toronto Maple Leafs did meet with free agent coach Ron Wilson and did offer him the position. 

Wilson has since flown home to be with his family, where he will contemplate the decision.  Wilson and the Maple Leafs are expected to meet again this weekend, at which time Wilson will inform the Leafs of his decision.

Rumour has it that Wilson has been offered a four or five year deal.

Despite having a good career record, Wilson's arrival in Toronto has also sparked (once again) the Brian Burke talk. 

Wilson and Burke are good friends and former co-workers, and teammates.  Burke is also the godfather of Wilson's daughter.

Video: Here is video footage of Ron Wilson in Toronto.  Talk about scaring someone off before they officially even arrive.  You're not in California anymore, Mr. Wilson.  Click here for footage.

Blake Wheeler On Radar

According to some reports, the Maple Leafs are interested in bringing in free agent forward Blake Wheeler.

Wheeler was a first round choice, 5th overall in 2004.  He was chosen by the Phoenix Coyotes, but couldn't come to terms on a contract and declared himself a free agent last week.

The American-born winger has good talent, and would be a boost to Toronto's rebuild, as it would almost be like adding another 1st round pick.

Cliff Fletcher, the Maple Leafs' current GM, was in the Coyotes' front office that was responsible for drafting Wheeler.

In saying the Leafs are interested, that isn't to say others aren't.  Having a good young talent, under a rather inexpensive contract, is almost invaluable and surely there will be a long line for Wheeler's services.

Maple Leafs Draft Resource

Last week I posted looks back in time to the 2003, 1998, and 1993 NHL Entry Draft to review the choices the Maple Leafs took, who they could have chosen, and what impact it had on the franchise.

In the weeks to come leading up to this year's NHL Entry Draft, I will have a ton of things leading up to the draft to get you ready for the event (Yes, I am a draft nerd.)

Aside from prospect profiles, I will also give my take on who the Maple Leafs should take with their draft picks in this years draft, and I will also conduct an interview with a very special guest.