When the Leafs traded Cody Franson and Mike Santorelli to the Nashville Predators, I felt the first flame had been sparked in operation Scorched Earth. Since then, I've readjusted my expectations. I no longer believe the Leafs will be able to trade anyone beyond the expiring contracts.
Daniel Winnik signed a one-year deal with the Leafs last summer, and he was definitely going to be dealt to a playoff-bound team. That happened today when he was sent to Pittsburgh for forward Zach Sill, their second round pick in 2016 and fourth round pick in 2015.
Now, the hard part begins. The trade deadline is Monday and so far Operation Scorched Earth is really more lit tinder.
