Hockey Trade Rumors

By ROB LONGLEY, SUN MEDIA

So far, the trades have been minor and draft picks are just long-term investments in the future.

But today, Leafs president Brian Burke and his staff take their latest stab at landing an impact player (or players) who can be part of both the short and long-term future of the struggling franchise.

Burke has promised to be active when the NHL free agency period opens for business at noon.And with money to spend (somewhere between $12 and $15-million US under the cap) and plenty of needs, his voice will be heard.

Could there be a top-six forward in blue and white by the end of the day?

Some muscle?

Another defenceman?

Here’s a look at some of the top possibilities to be on Burke’s radar.

More and more, it sounds as though the Leafs will be major players and will make a substantial offer.

If the money gets silly, they will back off.

But if it stays reasonable, both in cash and term, look out.

The upside is that the twins can form the core of a first line for years.

Presumably, even for as long as it takes for the Leafs to become competitive.

The downside is price, especially if agent J.P. Barry is able to trigger a bidding war.

Mike Cammalleri: The kid from the GTA would be a hometown hit and would instantly be declared the team’s only legitimate top-six forward.

A 39-goal scorer for the Flames this past season, Cammalleri is likely to get plenty of attention.

Price, then, will be an issue.

http://www.torontosun.com/sports/hockey/2009/07/01/9990141-sun.html