It’s not as if he has done much since taking over, but I do like that he came out and said this season was to identify what the club has and really give guys a shot to prove their worth. It seems to have taken the pressure off guys like Frattin, Kadri, and Franson, so they can play and not feel tense as if a single mistake puts them in the press box or glues them to the bench.

The only big time trade rumor I think is somewhat intriguing is Kessel for Perry Swap. Hard to imagine it, as you don’t see many straight up hockey deals, but it makes sense. Burke is now with Anaheim and he loves Kessel. Kessel is a good goal scorer, and even next year, isn’t likely to command as much as Perry. I think it would be contingent on Nonis talking to Perry to gauge how likely he is to re-sign with the Leafs, but it is an interesting thought. It would give the Leafs a really solid top 4 wingers. With Perry, Lupul, and JVR, the wings would be big and skilled. With Frattin looking like a legitimate top 4 winger as well (don’t want to include him based on 10 games only) and someone like Kulemin who can fill the void behind those other guys, the Leafs have some good size and skill in the top six.