"Calgary told teams that they wanted a first rounder and they wanted a player they could put on their roster right away... I'd love to know what Toronto's package was, because I heard it was - the word I got was 'comparable'. I don't know what Ottawa offered."
Despite Toronto's willingness to meet Calgary's demands, the deal never materialized. The Flames, perhaps still harboring some resentment towards Leafs' general manager Brad Treliving for his previous departure, were adamant that any trade favoring Toronto would need to be overwhelmingly advantageous. This backdrop of strained relations and strategic calculations suggests a lingering tension that might have influenced the trade dynamics.
The specifics of what Toronto might have offered remain shrouded in speculation. Potential components of the Leafs' offer could have included a first-round pick for either the 2024 or 2026 drafts, coupled with notable prospects like Topi Niemela or a promising young forward from their ranks. The exact details of the Leafs' bid remain undisclosed, sparking curiosity about the potential impact of such assets had the trade proceeded.
Source: Elliotte Friedman
They Really Did It...
