Phil Kessel The New Whipping Boy Of Toronto

This move is one of the most controversial moves made by Brian Burke and in Leafs history. Burke keeps saying that he would have made this trade even knowing that the Leafs could have landed Tyler Seguin in the 2010 Draft Pick. But is Burke just saying this? In order not to get back-lashed by the media? Could be….

Don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of upsides to Kessel. He is only 22, and he had 36 goals before joining the Leafs franchise. He ended up scoring 30 goals in 70 games, missing the first 13 games and training camp. But is he really worth losing two first round picks and a 2nd round pick? In time we'll know.

But at the  present moment, question that remains for leafs fans is, will Kessel be able to score 40+ goals in the future with the Leafs?  He could very well, but if he doesn't what is going happen with him?

Leafs fan are optimistic about the 2010-2011 season. They want their team to start off strong so they don't lag behind and fight for a playoff spot like they have done in the previous years. And all eyes will be on Kessel whether he likes it or not. Not only will he have to prove his worth, he needs to backup GM Brian Burke's famous lines, "I would still make this deal today." Oh Brian, I truly hope you mean it when you say that.

Tyler Seguin grew up watching the leafs, and admitted being a leafs fan...it should have been a perfect fit. But life as it seems is as unpredicatable as it has always been.  A lot people say, including Leafs GM Brian Burke that Tyler Seguin could be a dud, but who is to say that is even a possibility. At least that is what we would like to think. It'll surely make Leafs fans happy and pleased to know that their 2nd overall pick turned out to be a dud. How could it not. 

We now have Kessel. If he doesn't prove to meet his value then I am not sure what is going to happen with this franchise. Where can they go from here. A lot of pressure rides on the shoulders of this kid. It's a lot of stress for one young man. I am not saying he needs to carry all the load, but the media will make him out to be. He will be under the microscope, and will be watched on a consistent basis. His flaws, his attributes, his goal scoring ability will be scrutinized and talked about. Kessel will now more than ever before will be the main reason behind the Leafs being to able to make the playoffs in the 2010-2011 season. Brian Burke would be facing the wrath of the media, critics, analysists, and fans, if Kessel fails to impress.

Phil Kessel's price tag will be partially clarified by the middle of April in 2011. Was he worth it? I guess we'll have to sit back and wait.