I'm giving you 5 stars to take the edge off what I'm about to say, and no hard feelings.

Here we go with the f*****g bridge deals again. Can't we just pay the guy $50M over the next 8 years and stop thinking about him? Can you understand how annoyed I get, sitting here in Los Angeles, by Corey Perry's $8.625M figure every time I see it? A bridge deal is fine for players like Johnsson or Kapanen who haven't yet proven their worth.

Can we turn this post into a discussion of who Ozhiganov's partner should be -- Rielly, Gardiner or Hainsey (my preference)?

Don't underestimate Borgman! Even if his numbers are average his play is big and very mature. I'd prefer him to Hainsey in the third pair.

Don't think it's the same comparing Perry to Nylander. If my time recollection is correct, Peery was made his big money at the peak on his career. His contract has takes in him into his declining years.
If Nylander signs a long term contract, it will be on the basis of Nylander will get better....always an iffy projection. Of course if Nylander thinks his is going to be getting better and therefore be more "valuable", shouldn't Nylander shun a long term deal and take a shorter term, less money bridge? IMO Nylander wants a bridge, while the Leafs would prefer a long term deal. To me it's a bridge that is signed.

Borgman. Agree with. you. IMO Borgman is going to be a very competent NHL Dman. He has play minutes this year. I'd prefer he played with the Leafs as more AHL isn't going to develop him that much more at his age and with this years of pro experience. Even if it means moving Dermot to ride side and having the LHD. Reilly, Gardiner and Borgman.

I know that what is reported really means nothing but there are quotes with Willie saying he wants to stay in Toronto long term. I for one believe it. Think of how exciting it is for these kids right now. They own the city. If they win, contract value means nothing, they will have people in T.O. throwing money at them for life and they know it! Look at Clark and Gilmour, still legends and never won. IMO He sign's at fair value 8 years.

Hope your right about Nylander and the other guys. Bob Baun, , who won four Cups as a Leafs, jokes because of "broken leg goal", he's never had to buy a dinner in Toronto.

I was too obscure in my reference to Perry. My thought was/is that Perry got signed to his big-ticket long-term contract late and I don't want to see the same thing happen with Nylander. Six years to 28 and then 6 years to 34 seems about right. Or 8 years and then let's see.