With the UFA market at points reaching ridiculous levels of spending, the Toronto Maple Leafs decided to enter the trade market to land the top level forward they were in need of. The "buds" decided to sacrifice a little of the teams well managed youth, moving 3 quality young players and a 2nd round pick to the New Jersey Devils for Allstar forward Daniel Briere and a 4th round pick.

"The bidding for every UFA forward we had interest in reached levels we weren't comfortable with so we started looking for other options. By making this deal, we've been able to avoid a cap busting contract and a large signing bonus, while adding a player of equal talent to pretty much all of the UFA forwards who also has a reasonable contract for 3 more seasons," said GM Garrett Hansford.

Leaving the Maple Leafs are top young forward prospect James Sheppard, former top 10 pick forward Gilbert Brule, former 1st round goaltender Semen Varlamov and a 2nd round pick.

"We liked our kids, but we know we've got a fair bit of depth there. Our goal is to not only rebound this season and make the playoffs, but our goal every year is to win the Stanley Cup. There are no other expectations. If you aren't aiming for the top goal, you'll never reach it. Around hear, winning the championship is the only goal."