Toronto Maple Leafs: 5 Takeaways from their Offseason Moves
4) Not Getting Steven Stamkos
Mark down June 29th 2016 as a day fans of the Leafs, Montreal Canadiens and Edmonton Oilers want to leave in the rear-view mirror. Toronto were unable to convince Steven Stamkos to leave the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Canadiens traded away franchise defenceman P.K. Subban and the Oilers moved Taylor Hall, in an attempt to improve their blueline.
The Subban trade was the biggest shock and the Hall move the most confusing, almost allowing the Stamkos deal to fall under the radar. Unfortunately for Leafs fans, the Stamkos story was not going away, even with the shocking news that came before it.
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While it is unfortunate to see Stamkos sign with the Lightning, it should not come as a surprise. If anything, Toronto probably knew it was an uphill battle to get him.
When you look at what the Leafs have been trying to accomplish since Brendan Shanahan took over, there has been a specific vision of what he wants done. He wants the franchise to be a premier organization, that will be a safe environment for youngsters and players brought in through free agency.
However, as the Leafs have just found out, attracting free agents is not going to be an easy task. One thing we apparently underestimated, was the effect Ontario taxes have on player contracts, especially when the state of Florida does not charge income tax.
However, it is doubtful that taxes were what drove Stamkos to go back to the Lightning. It was probably the certainty of his situation in Tampa Bay with the core players they have, and that they are a legitimate cup contender.
Next: Looking ahead