Trade Deadline 2008 - The Countdown (22.5hrs)

These are the big rumors revolving around Dallas that I've seen in the last weeks, and how they have, or are, working themselves out.

Matts Sundin, Toronto Maple Leafs - asked to waive his No-Trade clause and thought hard the past week, but ultimately decided to stick with Toronto. For the team it was "what's best for the team" but for him it was staying true to his heart. Sundin has been a Leaf for 13 seasons and does not believe in rental players, which is what he was being asked to be - he's not even sure he'll return next season - what does he care if he spends 4 months with a team that might make it, or the team he leaves.

Alexander Tanguay, Calgary Flames - a big rumor for the Dallas Market, he fit the bill pretty well and people seemed to think they'd like our youngin's. Well today GM Daryl Sutter said "No Way" - he was uninterested in trading away Tanguay, and in my opinion, this was a smart move for him. It helps that the flames aren't in last place.

Peter Forsberg, Unrestricted Free Agent - We've heard the back and forth on this one. Well, his favorit team, the Avs, have called on him. Turns out he was willing to take 1 season (financials not yet disclosed) but only for the right team. We'll see him towards the end of the season. Expect to see him on the IR for a few weeks ... if nothing else a Healthy Scratch. There is no way his foot is ready for what he'll need to be doing for the Avs to win.

Brad Richards, Tampa Bay Lightening - Brad could fit REALLY well in Dallas, although what we need is someone to take the shot, not make the pass. But like I said, he has the potential. I'd even like to see him here - but NOT FOR 7.8 MILLION BUX. Jeeez Tampa. So, he's definitely on the block, and someone is going to pick him up, but for the love of god I hope it isn't Dallas. FYI - that would make him, I believe, our highest paid player for the next two seasons and would pretty much nail us to the roof of the salary cap at least next year. Also, we would likely have to let go of Smitty, unless there was a 3-way trade involved, and I don't know I even see that happening.

So, it looks like so far we're going to go MAJOR trade-free, unless Hull & Jackson are masters of Magic, and I'm not one to say they aren't! So, raise a glass for hockey and say a toast for your team in hopes we love who we see in 22.5 hours ...