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Originally Posted by David Singleton
As has already been pointed out, that's a statement without context. Toronto was in horrible shape prior to that move. I don't think one can argue that they are now moving in very good direction now and Kessel (along with other moves like Lupul and even Phaneuf) are key cogs in that move.
New Jersey was in a world of hurt before signing Kovy and their situation has only gotten worse due to their ownership issues. As good as Lou is, he's never shown the same touch since the cap came into existence. They keep trying to hang on, much like Calgary with slightly younger players.
Nashville's situation is different than both of those franchises. While certainly not in the same situation as Pittsburgh, Detroit, or Chicago when each acquired Hossa (strangely enough), they are certainly much closer to those franchises than they are to New Jersey or Toronto. Those acquisitions worked out well for those franchises.
I agree that it's hit or miss. That said, I have a lot of confidence in David Poile to bring bottom six talent (and low end top six talent) into the fold at a reasonable price. I don't have the same confidence in this franchise's ability to draft or groom top-3 level forward talent.
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Toronto's team mentality is a mess ... individually there was a lot of talent when Kessel walked through the door. Ponikarovski put up 20+ in three of the four seasons before the trade. Kulemin was coming off a 15 goal rookie campaign. Hagman was there .... Stempniak ... Grabovski coming off a 20g season.