Appreciation: An open letter to Tomas Kaberle
Dear Tomas:
It's never easy to say goodbye to a family member. And over more than 12 seasons, 878 games and countless memories, that's exactly what you became.
It all started on October 10, 1998.
Two years after getting drafted by Toronto as a shy 18-year-old, there you were in your NHL debut against the Red Wings. There you were in your new home, far away from your old home in the Czech Republic.
A spirit of change floated toward the rafters that night.
It was the last time a season would begin at Maple Leaf Gardens. It was the first time the Leafs were in the Eastern Conference. The word "rebuild" was used more than once that summer.
You played nearly 30 minutes that night. You were on the ice for power plays and even the final minute of Toronto's thrilling 2-1 win. And although it was sketched in the dotted-line silhouette of first impressions, your extraordinary skill level was obvious.
You skated with the grace of a swan. You passed the puck with elegance and precision. None of this ever stopped once it started.
We didn't know much about you back then. Certainly, there was no way to divine the numbers and milestones now attached to your name with bittersweet finality: 520 career points. Eighth on the all-time list for games played in Toronto. The second-highest number of assists and points for a defenceman in team history, behind only a fellow by the name of Borje Salming.
Even this season, even after all this time, the numbers remain impressive: 35 assists ties you for fifth among all NHL defencemen and 16th among all skaters on all teams. Put it this way: You now have one more assist than Sidney Crosby and have factored into more than a quarter of the Leafs’ 146 goals this season.
How the Leafs compensate for these backend numbers is their problem. How you slience criticism that surfaced from certain corners in recent years – "He doesn't shoot enough," "He doesn't really care about winning" – is your problem.
Solving problems is what good families do.
You wanted to stay in Toronto. You asked for a contract extension. But when all was said and done, when it became obvious the family needed to change, you helped the only team you've ever known find a new team for your services.
You did the right thing and for that you should be commended.
In an ideal world, of course, you would have retired in blue and white during a sentimental ceremony. But idealism and sentiment should never cloud the cold decisions that need to be made in the world of professional hockey.
That spirit of change is floating up again toward the rafters.
The Leafs could have lost you for nothing on July 1. The "rebuild" word is in heavy rotation, just like when you were a rookie in that October game against Detroit.
So even though it feels like a day of mourning, the truth is, we should be celebrating. We should be celebrating everything you did for us. And we should celebrate the arrival of yet another first-round pick and yet another promising young prospect.
We may worry about what your departure means to the word we dare not use. We may second-guess this or that. But here's the thing: Sometimes you have to say goodbye to yesterday to welcome tomorrow.
So as trades go, when you factor in both time and need, this one feels beneficial for all involved. In the short-term, Boston benefits. In the long-term, Toronto benefits. And in between, you benefit.
You represented the Leafs in four NHL All-Star games. You represented the Czech Republic in three Winter Olympics. Along the way, you carried yourself with class and dignity, always content to inhabit the shadows away from the spotlight, always the same shy teen when the cameras flashed and the microphones whirred.
So this is it, then. Good luck in Boston. We are excited for you and excited for what we may become in the days and weeks and months ahead.
Farewell and thank you.
TOP PHOTO: COLIN MCCONELL/TORONTO STAR
Well said.
All the best, Tomas. Boston just became my horse for this years playoffs. You're a class act and I wish you all the success in the world - here's hoping that we both get to enjoy Lord Stanley soon.
Posted by: Bracken | 02/18/2011 at 07:29 PM
Good guy, got a lot of points, never caused any dressing room drama, hope he does well in Beantown on the PP with that large "thing" playing the other point.
However, I am stuck with my no-movement clause. Still a g**d*** Leafs fan!
VM Replies: Oh, man. This *was* Comment of The Day yesterday. Simon was right.
Posted by: 80s Leafs | 02/18/2011 at 07:37 PM
Though he played in Toronto, Kaberle still managed to be actually underrated. He is a truly elegant player whose skills were unmatched in Toronto during his tenure here. I hope he wins a Stanley Cup -- and any Leafs fan who wishes otherwise is an idiot. Good luck, Tomas.
Posted by: PJ88 | 02/18/2011 at 07:45 PM
From 80s Leafs "However, I am stuck with my no-movement clause. Still a g**d*** Leafs fan!"
Gotta be comment of the night.
Great piece! Summed it up well. Tomas, farewell, we'll see you again.
Posted by: Simon | 02/18/2011 at 07:56 PM
Very, very tasteful and appropriate Vinay. I have nothing to add except: Thank you Tomas!
VM Replies: Thanks, Moe. I know you don't like the trade but I (hope) we all love this trade by this time next season.
Posted by: moe green | 02/18/2011 at 08:06 PM
Beautiful tribute sir! And although I hate the Bruins, to me its like when Ray Bourque had the cup handed to him in Colorado...if the Bruins go all they way, I will sob tears of joy when Kaberle lifts that cup. You are a class act Kabs, you magnificient
VM Replies: I didn't get a chance to reply to your comments last night. Thanks for your kind words (in the previous thread, I believe).
Nice to have you with us.
Posted by: Browner_than_Mike_Brown | 02/18/2011 at 08:23 PM
very well said he was a great leaf and took a lot of crap from the fans and media but he never ever complained and he did his job. i am routing for the bruins now if the leafs don't make it. would love to see him win a cup!
Posted by: Gary | 02/18/2011 at 08:41 PM
I thought there was nothing left to say, but I was wrong. I hate this deal. Not because I think it was a bad deal - it wasn't. I think Burke made out well and got a maximum value for Kaberle. Sometimes "maximum value" isn't the most important thing.
What I don't like is that Brian Burke did not see the value in offering a contract extension to a guy who played without complaint at below market value for the bulk of his career. He was a popular player in Toronto not just because of the kind of player he was but because of the kind of person he is. Tomas Kaberle also loved the Leafs. He was a highly-skilled player. Sadly, for Brian Burke, all that wasn't enough.
There are times when making the right move isn't based on cold hard facts or dollars and cents. He may be able to replace his skill-set but we we won't replace Tomas Kaberle. And we can never take back the shoddy way he was treated by this team. Tomas Kaberle was more than just a mercenary. I think Burke blew this one big time.
I think Brian Burke is an good deal-maker. I think he has his own brand of personal integrity. And I like Burke as a person, but let's make no mistake, he's all business. Thing is, this team is far more than just a business. Burke says what he has to say and he chooses his words carefully. Although Burke has blustered about it, clearly, making the playoffs have never been in the plans this season. That's okay, just don't blatantly lie about it. That is just not fair to us.
Again, it's not that I disagree with the strategy but I do disagree with lying repeatedly to the fans and treating people badly. Soon his words are going to be seen for what they are: Meaningless self-serving promotional babble. I want to cheer for the kind of team that speaks the truth about it's intentions even if it costs them. A team that re-signs a guy like Tomas Kaberle even if it isn't the perfect thing to do from a financial standpoint.
The Brian Burke Maple Leafs are a slightly tarnished organization in my eyes today.
Posted by: moe green | 02/18/2011 at 09:07 PM
vinay: Elegant. You have served the man to a T. I am sorry the Leafs did not understand what they had - the desire to rebuild requires the need to understand what is wrong. Tomas was an elite player. As Schenn is reported to have said in the G &M ' he was my teammate for three years, he taught me a lot, he would take me aside on the bench and talk to me - he made me a better player' No words could describe Tomas better. Colby said, he was always smiling, one of the finest people I have met. I am so sorry he is gone. I wish him well in Boston. Nothing would be a better tribute to this man than that one day he should hold the cup we all hold to dear, on high. For those who did not know his value, it may take a long time to replace him.
Posted by: Robert | 02/18/2011 at 09:33 PM
Beautifully written. I hope you are sending it to Kaberle --along with all the recent complimentary posts about him.
You almost made me accept the trade --well, I guess it has to be accepted; it's done, but I even feel a bit better.
Not saying I can cheer for Boston, but his presence there will add more interest to any (P) series that don't involve the Leafs.
Posted by: enJoy hockey | 02/18/2011 at 09:40 PM
I must add, Bryan Burke at the press conference stated, '' we were given one team to see if we could trade Tomas, I will never be held to having someone tell me we can only trade to one team' - Bryan, he had a no trade contract! He helped you out because he could not play for your coach. The one who demanded they get Jeff Finger and sign him to that ridiculous contract. That is your real problem.
Kaberle is a man of honour. Try to honour his memory, the second highest scoring Leaf defenceman ever, and you had no use for him! Shame.
Posted by: Robert | 02/18/2011 at 09:41 PM
...and thank you, Vinay, for the well expressed letter on behalf of many fans.
Now that he is in Boston I hope he will have the opportunity ( no Wilson directives) to read the Leaf Fan blog, particularly this tribute.
Tomas, I will follow your fortune in the black and yellow.
Back to the Boston/Ottawa game on TV. Go Kaberle !
Posted by: leafland'r | 02/18/2011 at 09:44 PM
Vinay, I know that myself and others on this blog, say thank you and applaud your abilities as a writer. I must say that this is by far your best work in this forum.
So thank you sir, for a poignant and heartfelt piece. I am touched by your sentiments, for the player and the man. I am humbled by my tertiary association with this blog. I feel in no small way that you are doing something very few people are able to do. You my dear friend are bringing people together, rather than driving them apart. Sentimentality is something I do not do well, my posts are a testiment to that. I do not live in the past, for even a moment. Vinay, you are making me question the wisdom of my path. Thank you, a man unwilling to accept other possibilities is hardly a man.
Posted by: waffles2010 | 02/18/2011 at 09:55 PM
Glad to see you go Kabby, now you can experience playoffs. I am a little saddened by the fact your summers break is now shorter...No more time to play catch up with Sundin, Tucker, Kubina and McCabe....But I am sure you must twitter to one another.
Welcome Joe Colburn to the fold......You sir have a bright future and I look forward to seeing you on our top line very shortly.
Posted by: Nik Culoman | 02/18/2011 at 10:02 PM
Moving tribute to Kaberle, Vinay...I got 'moved'. Never felt Thomas got the respect in Toronto he deserved...he 'deserved' better. Here's hoping he gets it, and the Leafs still get 'something' in return in their run for the playoffs in '11. (italics for emphasis)
VM Replies: Thank you, Mr. Dixon. I'm glad you're here now. Since the blog started, I haven't had much time for Twitter.
Posted by: wcdixon | 02/18/2011 at 10:42 PM
I think you should email this to him or somehow make sure he gets this so he knows how much leaf fans appreciate him and we have not forsaken him
Posted by: closethockeyfan | 02/18/2011 at 11:09 PM
Good, good, really smart hockey player. He's going to be a terrific fit in Boston too.
Thank you Tomas for seeing that it just wasn't happening here any more and having enough respect for the organization to let us get something back for you. I knew mailing it in for the last 6 weeks and then bolting at the end of the year wasn't your style.
Good on you.
Posted by: Mambosun | 02/18/2011 at 11:13 PM
Vinay,
I'm shocked to admit this is the first time that I actually felt, well, a little sad about the loss of Tomas Kaberle. All day today I have been caught up in the excitement of the 1st round pick and solid young prospect. Thank you for once again finding the words to allow me to feel. Kaberle is a class act, and I will certainly miss him.
Tomas, I wish you all the best in your career.
Posted by: Lee | 02/18/2011 at 11:39 PM
Thank you Moe,
The best 'deals' are not always best for the team. My impression is that Versteeg had no (positive) effect on the team. Losing Kaberle however, is sad for the fans, sad for Schenn, sad for the Leafs. How he still managed to play at that level under the clouds that have circled him for 2-3 years I'll never know. How will they respond without him?
Burke said last year that by trading Kaberle he'd only have to replace him eventually with another (rare) puck-moving defenceman. I'm hoping that Gunnarson can start providing some of that offense but he's got a long way to go. Burke is going to have to start looking. I can't see him re-signing Tomas in the off season.
Meanwhile, will Tomas be rejuvenated in Boston? They don't exactly have a ton of scoring there. They do have a better goalie to cover up some of his weak defensive zone. I imagine he will be his normal cool self. Maybe the playoffs will wake up some long lost dust memories!
Posted by: Waiting for Godot | 02/19/2011 at 12:51 AM
I so wanted Kaberle to go to Montreal, in exchange for Kostitsyn and one of the youngsters (Nash, Webber)...but neither Burke nor Gauthier returned my calls.
I'm happy that the Leafs are putting in place a strategy that will make the Kessel trade less onerous over time, but I'm bitter that Kaberle went to Boston. What's with all this dealing with divisional and conference rivals? Why doesn't Burke keep dealing with his friends out West? Boston seems to take everyone's best players (Rask, Ryder, Kelly, Kaberle) and is building a team that will crush everyone in the East. Why should we be happy about that?
Kaberle would have loved Montreal. Tomas Plekanec would have become his best friend and the fans would have worshipped him.
I'm sad.
VM Replies: His first choice was Boston. If the deal had not worked out, it would have been interesting to learn his next two or three choices.
Posted by: Princess Mononoke | 02/19/2011 at 07:29 AM
Tomas, congratulations on obtaining your parole. You did well behind the fence...obeyed the "warden" and the "guards", took your medicine when required, were loyal to a fault. Just as well you didn't SHOOT when you were in, the guards take a dim view of that. Anyway, you are out and I thank you for the quality time spent in solitary and wish you great success in the future. As for loyalty, as they say in Maple Leaf land...if you want loyalty, buy a dog. Oh forgot, they already purchased Phaneuf.
Posted by: Ken Chevis | 02/19/2011 at 08:14 AM
http://www.thestar.com/sports/hockey/nhl/article/941775--cox-kaberle-deal-fits-into-burke-s-master-plan
Now dry your eyes kabby fans, everything is going to be alright. To bad Kabby's beachfront parties are going to be at a premium, now that he has playoff hockey to worry about. Now that is truly sad.
Above is an article on the future of this team, an article most reporters should have written long before this trade happen about the other assets including Kessel BB has picked up.
Things are getting better for this team, I look forward to seeing what other rabbit BB can pull out of his hat,
VM Replies: Good morning to you, Nik Culoman.
Posted by: Nik Culoman | 02/19/2011 at 08:51 AM
When can we start seriously talking about the trade itself and what might be around the corner for us.This blog is,at this moment,is a black hole of despair.Pretty sure this is not what VM intended.
VM Replies: I couldn't reply to comments last night as I was "off-site," as my overlords say. Apologies.
A black hole of despair? No! No despair! I can only speak for myself but I don't feel any despair. In fact, I was stunned by how much Burke was able to get for Kaberle.
That said, the guy did spend more than a dozen seasons here. He's No. 2 among the D on the all-time scoring list. And you know what? I think he's a really classy guy for a number of reasons I won't bore you with...
So my personal reaction to the trade was twofold: 1. My head loved it. 2. My heart felt a little heavy.
Anyway, it's done. Onwards.
Posted by: TimB | 02/19/2011 at 09:02 AM
Bryan at his presser said 'we decided we could not meet Tomas' demands to stay here, so we proceeded with the trade to Boston'. (Paraphrasing) Tomas wanted to stay in Toronto. Burke never approached him about a contract extension so how would he know? Disingenuous at best. Better keep an eye on our Burke, what he tells us many not be what is happening.
Tomas Kaberle is a free man! I would love to see him hoist that cup.
Posted by: Robert | 02/19/2011 at 09:12 AM
Tomas, good luck in Boston and thanks for everything you gave us Leaf fans! In good and bad times (and even worse times). You're a great guy!
Posted by: Marcus | 02/19/2011 at 09:30 AM
Thanks,VM. I said before you can not run a team with your heart.I will not say any more in this circular argument about Kaberle.So far,I was wrong in thinking we were going to lose prospects.Looks just the opposite.I'm good with rebuilding.It bothers me not when Aulie makes rookie mistakes.When certain non rookies make rookie mistakes that is a bother.Speaking of Phaneuf,will he now raise his game to answer the call towards the word we can not utter.
VM Replies: Phaneuf needs to start putting up some numbers and everybody (including him) knows it.
This unorthodox rebuild-on-the-fly means Burke is trying to do things that will help right now and things that will help for years to come. The trade yesterday was the latter.
What he expects, I think, is for his foot soldiers to respond to these temporary gaps in the battlefield and redefine their roles, jump into the void.
Posted by: TimB | 02/19/2011 at 09:45 AM
In the pressure cooker that is Toronto Kaberle always carried himself with class but more importantly he did something very few do: HE PERFORMED.
And when the team no longer wanted him, he agreed to a trade that helps TORONTO!
No he wasn't a perfect player, he should have shot more.
But let's not forget he was drafted in the 8th round at 204th overall.
You could not ask more from a player in that position.
I hope he does win the cup.
He will forever have my gratitude and respect.
Thanks TK,
You and Mats were often the only bright light in a Leaf fan's darkness.
Posted by: Prayin' Since '68 | 02/19/2011 at 09:55 AM
Vinay, this almost made me cry.... Alright fine, I spent 25 min bawling under the blanket after I read this.
@Moe, I agree 100% with what you said. I keep having the same conversation with people, over and over again. No it was not at all a bad trade, both teams got a great return. My entire problem with this is that it should have NEVER even got to the point where we were worried about Kaberle walking in the off season and not getting anything in return. He should been valued for the tremendous character he is on and off the ice and been offered an extension long ago. I think Moe has covered this point well so I won't get into it but it is definitely very difficult to see him go.
Man, I am just tired of watching my favourite players retire elsewhere.
VM Replies: Crying? What? No!
Posted by: Alecia | 02/19/2011 at 10:00 AM
A final note on the Kaberle situation. Brian talks about being fair and decent but how much of that is just talk? Either Wilson or Burke or both decided to remove the "A" from Kaberle's sweater. They did what they could to send Kaberle the message that he was not wanted in Toronto.
Burke did not acknowledge that the real reason that Kaberle waived the no-trade was to help the team. It's Tomas Kaberle, not Burke who we can thank for this sweet deal. That's something the great Sundin did not do. That is a big thing not to talk about at the press conference.
You can appreciate the deal (I do, it was a great deal) and like Burke all you want, but he did not give the appropriate recognition to Kaberle. He did not treat him with respect. At least not from my perspective. I will acknowledge that I can't know what really went on behind closed doors.
Posted by: moe green | 02/19/2011 at 10:06 AM
I find these exciting times.We certainly got a small glimpse of the future in the last two games.I'm wondering now if Penner at 28 isn't too old for the Leafs.
Posted by: TimB | 02/19/2011 at 10:07 AM
@Alecia. None of us likes it.This is the state of hockey now.This does not resemble in the least the league we old farts used to enjoy.I'm pretty sure if the day comes I see a Leaf captain hoist the cup,I will have watched my last game.
Posted by: TimB | 02/19/2011 at 10:13 AM
@ moe - More applause for you. Standing ovation! *applauds*
I saw a post-game interview with Kaberle after the Bruins/Sens games last night (so strange to see his name on anything but blue and white, not to mention he's #12 now), and he stated that he was "not going to be the guy to tell Burkie that I'm not going anywhere". Such a class act. I really hope he gets to hoist that cup before he retires, he certainly deserves it.
Vinay, is there any way that Burke and Kaberle concocted a devious secret plan and he will in fact resign him in the offseason while getting to keep Colbourne and the 1st rounder? That would be a pretty sweet deal.
*bawls*
VM Replies: If I had to guess, I'd say the chance of Kaberle returning to Toronto while Burke is in charge is roughly equivalent to the chance of Elin getting back with Tiger Woods.
Posted by: Alecia | 02/19/2011 at 10:22 AM
I'm a repeatedly declared Kaberle fan. That said, the trade, on reflection, isn't so bad for Toronto. I think it pretty much kills off the Leafs' playoff chances (which were already slim), but it will help them build for the future.
As Alecia and Moe suggest, the real shame is how Burke and Wilson treated Kaberle over the past 2+ years - stripping him of his "A" and so on. Their behaviour brought discredit to the organization. The fact Kaberle carried on, played pretty well, and was apparently still a good mentor to Schenn and the other young D-men speaks volumes about his character.
My big regret, like Princess M, is that he went to Boston. I hate that team with the heat of 1,000 burning suns. He would have looked so much better in bleu, blanc et rouge. Now he'll have to play with that Frankenstein on skates who patrols the Boston blueline, and feed his beautiful passes to the simian likes of Milan Lucic and Brad Marchand.
VM Replies: Good morning, Mr. Read. How is your guest post coming along?
Posted by: Geoff Read | 02/19/2011 at 10:25 AM
Moe,correct me if I'm wrong,but I believe a while back you talked about a Marxist Hockey League where everyone makes the same wage and so on.Even though we know this is impossible,the Cap is an attempt to "even the playing field."Is there anyone out there that believes #1 the cap is a good move and #2 the cap is not responsible for the majority of trade decisions?
Posted by: TimB | 02/19/2011 at 10:25 AM
As much as I could not forgive Boston for" Tricking " us about the P.K. trade,suddenly I have a change of heart............PLEASE, hockey GOD,please let Boston win the Stanley cup.........so I shall see the smiling face of the most deserving player:The Underrated Thomas Kaberle ! PLEASE accept our sincere gratitude to you,the dearest Mr .Kaberle !!! P.S. Hockey God ,remember ONLY this year of 2011,thank you in advance !
VM Replies: Good morning to you, Lisa.
Posted by: Lisa | 02/19/2011 at 10:28 AM
@TimB, I know, I know. It's more business now, isn't it?
I'm 25, so I grew up watching Kaberle, and he was the last remaining link to the past and to the team that I originally fell in love with. I'm getting all mushy!
It's okay, what I really want now is his name on the cup. Boston has officially become the team I will cheer for in the post season.
March 19, Bruins play at the ACC, and one way or another, I will find a way to be at the game.
Posted by: Alecia | 02/19/2011 at 10:29 AM
Alecia,that is a blatant conflict of interest and I intend on getting you excommunicated from Leafs Nation.
Posted by: TimB | 02/19/2011 at 10:42 AM
Good morning Vinay!
You're a funny man... but I haven't given the guest post any thought whatsoever!
VM Replies: Two more weeks and you'll be working on your first draft.
Posted by: Geoff Read | 02/19/2011 at 10:44 AM
TimB, I'm afraid I have a No Trade-No Move Clause which I will never ever waive. I'm stuck here for life, LIFE, I say. You won't Burke me out of this. I would just like to see Kaberle return to the ACC and receive the proper standing ovation from the fans that he deserves. I call this closure.
Posted by: Alecia | 02/19/2011 at 10:47 AM
Thanks, Thomas, for being loyal to the leafs and sticking with the team during this difficult period. I understand things did not work out, but i hope that you are able to win a stanley cup in boston.
Best of luck in the future,
A leafs fan
Posted by: steve | 02/19/2011 at 10:56 AM
Two questions:
1. Kaberle's departure IS disappointing, and further, who is going to fill the void to keep our drive alive.... Lebad? Finger?
2. It would be nice to see Kaberle hoist the Cup, but wouldn't that impact the Leaf's position for a first round choice opposed to a preliminary round elimination?
Wishing for the best possible outcome for TK after TML.
VM Replies: If there was a hidden camera trained on every Leaf player 24/7, at 1 p.m. yesterday I bet the Lebda feed would show him slouching over, grabbing his head and mumbling, "Oh, crap."
Posted by: leafland'r | 02/19/2011 at 11:00 AM
Good Morning, VM. Another hat trick for you, great piece. Teams are corporations and players are tradable assets. With that in mind, teams cannot have it both ways, they can't get mad at players that leave for perceived greener pastures and claim they have no loyalty (à la LeBron James). I think as a fan, I cannot also have it both ways, get mad when players use their no trade to hurt the team and then be upset at management when I think they should not trade a player that has one. Kabby never fit into BB's master plan. In agreeing to be traded, the Leafs got something when really (based on his contract) they were not entitled to anything. So thank you, Tomas, for being one of the best all-time Leaf offensive d-man and for showing true leaf loyality by letting us get something for you. Thank you, BB, for not letting Mr. Wilson's need to dump this guy make you trade him for a bag of pucks (à la Kordic) and wait for the best deal. Even when you only had the option of trading him to one team (one arm tied behind your back), Mr. Burke, you pulled it off (à la Keyser Söze) and got way above market value.
After reading your piece, VM, I am excited again. This team has shown great resilience this year. Each time I have thought that oh well the season is done, they have bounced back with some great game efforts. I am excited to see who steps up down the stretch. Who wants to win? Who might fill the void in my heart created with Tomas' departure? There a bunch of young players ready to step up and try to fill that void. I have a good feeling this morning. I am ready for the Sens. I think the Buds will be ready too. Go Leafs Go!
VM Replies: Burke is a big believer in upward pressure. He wants every player looking over his shoulder and thinking someone else could jump in and take that spot.
Posted by: Rooney | 02/19/2011 at 11:04 AM
Wow, VM, what a fitting tribute to a honorable and noble man, Tomas Kaberle. Although I did not cry like Alecia, I did get a little misty eyed. So, now the search is on to replace the class and dignity of our dear, departed friend. What Tomas did by accepting this trade, I will forever hold you in the highest esteem as the classy and loyal leaf you performed. Make no mistake leaf nation, he agreed to this trade as his final gesture of his great respect and admiration to the city of Toronto. He did not want another Sundin exit, he wanted to leave Toronto with his head held high and a final reward for the true blue leaf fans. Thank you Tomas, thank you very much. What we got in return, all leaf fans must admit, was far greater than anyone of us could have ever hoped for. Well done, Brian Burke.
VM Replies: Good morning, Michael. I quite agree: Kaberle put the team first. He didn't have to do this. He was underpaid for a long time and he was perfectly entitled to use the no-trade clause.
Posted by: Michael C. Nemirsky | 02/19/2011 at 11:04 AM
Where is Sensi-Bill? Was he not threatening to trash talk us in advance of tonight’s big game? I fear he may have finally succumbed to Sens Despair. I fear he has tossed his iPad in the Rideau Canal and is now holed up in the Chateau Laurier, binge eating on the blueberry squares sold at ByWard Market and rocking on his bed in the fetal position as a Carrie Underwood sampler plays on a borrowed boombox.
Posted by: Vinay Menon | 02/19/2011 at 11:18 AM
I could not disagree with Moe any more on this point. Kaberle had to go. He is part of an era -post 2004 that has been horrible. He has the leadership skills of a potatoe. He plays defence in an ironic way. He is hampering the development of Luke Schenn. He is preventing Phaneuf from being the offensive defensman he can be. For all the vaunted PP QB commebts, the Leafs have one of the worst PP in hockey. Putting someone with an actual shot beside Phanuef will do wonders.
People have said he is somehow underrated? I nearly chocked on my coffee. Kabs - and I say this as one of his biggest fans - is terribly overrated. Burke just took a ransom for this guy and I doubt even he can believe that he got it. Joe Coulbourn and Nazem Kadri . Luke Schenn and Phil Kessel are the future of this team and it is going to be wonderful.
Posted by: Ostrich_Lover | 02/19/2011 at 11:20 AM
Knew I could count on you Rooney.Let the games begin!
Posted by: TimB | 02/19/2011 at 11:20 AM
@ TimB: Hmmm... Acknowledged. I did write that and I do think that it would make an interesting experiment. An "everyone makes $2 million" hockey team. Marxist. I guess. Remember though, instead of having third and forth line pluggers you'd have third and forth line double-millionaires. So you'd have guys like Kulemin and MacArthur on your forth line. What's wrong with that? And what about the intangibles like team spirit and team bonuses. I'd love to see that experiment carried out.
As for my opinion on the cap? I love it. It adds an exciting new dimension. It does some playing-field leveling, and I like that too. Would you rather a league where the Yankees and Sox dominate the standings for decades? Is the cap system perfect? No, not at all. It's full of crap rules and restrictions that do nothing but pollute the purity of the game.
Maybe the main problem with the cap system is that some players still make too much money. That's the fault of the owners. They are the one who are really making too much money. And don't feel sorry for the so-called money losing franchises. If things were so bad for them it wouldn't be so easy to find buyers. Albeit buyers who want to move the teams out of non-hockey markets.
I guess the cap is what dictates many trades. But so does younger UFAs and greed. IS it cap considerations that led to Kaberle's departure. I would suggest only partly. Burke did not like the dynamic of signing Kaberle long-term. Maybe if the Leafs were closer to a championship. I actually don't see them that far off. A little further with the Kaberle move I guess, but maybe a more solid organization in the long run.
Like Vinay and others have suggested: It's over, onward and upward. I really feel that while Burke is aiming at a championship he is here primarily to build a strong organization. The Cups will come from that.
Posted by: moe green | 02/19/2011 at 11:48 AM
At the Ostrich-lover: Still don't understand the name or a love of Ostriches. Birds known for hiding their heads in the sand. You act as though Kaberle is somehow solely responsible for the Leafs anemic power play.
I watched them the other night and they were stagnant. Isn't that a coaching thing OL? Isn't that what Ron Wilson is supposed to do? I watched them telegraphing passes and shots. Not just Kaberle, all of them. What's up with that? And how pray tell is Kaberle "preventing Phaneuf from being the offensive defenseman he can be?"
Posted by: moe green | 02/19/2011 at 11:52 AM
Go easy on Sensi-Bill.
I feel his pain.
VM Replies: Uh oh. I fear the unholy alliance that could be Sensi-Bill and Princess Mononoke.
Posted by: Princess Mononoke | 02/19/2011 at 11:56 AM
A, eh?
The nominees are: Armstrong, Schenn, MacArthur, Kessel....
....and the winner issss : MacArthur !
Wait, then again, that might affect salary negotiations for next year, and Armstrong hasn't played enough games, Schenn is quiet and reserved, Kessel, well, Kessel is Kessel.
If we are not pressed for an 'A' before tonight's game, I guess we'll wait to see how Lupul unfolds.
Posted by: leafland'r | 02/19/2011 at 12:00 PM
@ OL,
What's with this assertion that Kaberle plays defense "ironically" or in an "ironic" way?
How do you define irony, exactly?
Do you see socratic irony, or dramatic irony at play here?
Forgive my ignorance, but I am aPhD in English and I fail to see how the concept of irony can be applied to as earnest, stalwart and unchanging an athlete as Kaberle.
VM Replies: All I know is this comment contains a considerable amount of Socratic irony.
Posted by: Princess Mononoke | 02/19/2011 at 12:02 PM
Perhaps the saddest thing about the trade is that I can't root for Kabs cuz I can't root for the Bruins. They are the enemy - a division rival. Beauchemin is a different story. And Versteeg, well it's Versteeg.
I wish Kaberle well personally but I wish an early playoff exit for the Bruins. For the "thank you Kessel's" and the regular season beatings and so much more. So go Kaberle and impress away. But when it comes to the Blew-ins, unless they are facing the Fryers, I'm hoping for an early playoff exit.
Posted by: moe green | 02/19/2011 at 12:03 PM
@moe green, I agree with you on the coaching. Wilson, above all his responsibilities, is special teams. Maybe, just maybe, Dion would be well worth the practice on actually hitting the net. Never before have I seen a player with such a rocket of a shot be so inaccurate. That is why in a lot of cases we have no traffic in front of the net, everyone is wondering if they are safe. Sometimes I get the feeling that Wilson does not communicate with Dion the proper messages and guidance he obviously needs. One more thing, anyone else notice during the Sens-Bruins game how Pierre "back-stabber" McGuire praised Kaberle last night? He never had those kind words for Tomas when he was a member of the leafs. Just don't understand how that man keeps his job!
Posted by: Michael C. Nemirsky | 02/19/2011 at 12:16 PM
Kaberle, Sundin and the others that were cleared out and pushed out are emblematic to the loosing this team has done since the post lockout era. I don't feel sorry for an athlete that makes millions of money, and than get's traded. How many us have seen people we know get laid off and cast aside after years of service for a company???? These people don't get traded, they don't keep their millions...They are sent off with no money to pay for bills, something guys like Kaberle have no clue what it means to deliver a hard days work like most of us. I don't shed a tear for a guy that makes millions, was part of a loosing team this city has become to hate and bash....
The only difference is these guys are celebrities, Burke made the decision that Kaberle and Co. weren't part of a winning future. So he let them go, most through trade to recoup assets, others were simply let to walk away. But that is the nature of the beast....Let's stop the boo hooing...Let's stop the complaining that a guy who should have been trade how many times before is now gone...
Too bad he hadn't come to this realization when the trade for Jeff Carter was offered....Because how great would Carter and Kessel look right now?
So let's stop this madness.....Let's stop living in the rear view mirror, and let's look forward to a bright future with all these prospects and picks BB has been able to gather and place in this organization.
Posted by: Nik Culoman | 02/19/2011 at 12:39 PM
Oh as a quick side not.....Kaberle.... A minus 1, and looked terrible on that defensive play that lead to the goal...Some things change....But others stay the same..
My warning to Bruins fans, be careful with kaberle, the teams you will play against will isolate him and drive hard down on him every shift he is on the ice. He will let them skate by him, so if you have a playoff meltdown...DON'T say I didn't warn you.
Posted by: Nik Culoman | 02/19/2011 at 12:42 PM
Princess, the true irony is that some people here think that their opinion is the only opionion that counts, when in fact their hockey IQ is barely above room temperature. I guess if they keep repeating the same drivel, eventually they will convince themselves that their "facts" are "indisputable."
Posted by: hoofheartz | 02/19/2011 at 12:42 PM
Actually Michael I barely noticed McGuire speaking at all. Maybe like with all white noise, he has just faded into the background.
Posted by: hoofheartz | 02/19/2011 at 12:44 PM
Moe: Kaberle is the leader of the PP with him gone, Dion will now be in charge, this will only improve his game. Also, I firmly believe that the fact that Kaberle wont/cant/refuses to shoot makes it easy for teams to cheat off Phaneuf and block his shot. When he had his best years for goal scoring his partner was Hamrlik, a player with a blast nearly as lethal as Dion's. If the Leafs partner Dion with a shooter, you will see his goal scoring soar.
Princess: I too am working towards my PHD in English. The ironic part of Kaberle's play could be seen in two different ways:
1- Dramatic Irony - The reader knows something that the character doesn't: Kaberle thinks he is a defencman , but we know better!!
2 Regular Irony - The opposite of expectations: Kaberle is supposed to prevent goals - he causes them. He is supposed to stop players from scoring, he helps them.
Posted by: Ostrich_Lover | 02/19/2011 at 12:46 PM
Okay Leaf Nation, we need to the positive vibe going for tonight's game. Let's get the party van started. Everyone's opinion counts. Waffles and TimB, I ain't getting on the bus without you. We need your energy, humour and straight shooting. Diverse and different opinions is what makes Leaf Nation awesome. I am disappointed that OL and Nik do a disservice to certain valid views with the nonsense they add to their posts. Sens fans sit waiting for us to join them in giving up on this season. We have a good quality core of young players who have not given up on this season. I am not prepared to give up on them. They are young and will make mistakes but this the time to show them that we have got their backs if they are prepared to give 100%. Booyaka you rebuilding Sens, make sure you turn out the lights after you realize you were just steam rolled by a freight train of young Leafs, sucks to be you!
Posted by: Rooney | 02/19/2011 at 12:51 PM
Someone emailed this morning to ask when the top photo was shot. Sorry, I should include captions from time to time. Just in case anybody else is wondering, that photo was shot yesterday after practice.
It shows Kaberle returning to the Leafs dressing room for the last time.
Posted by: Vinay Menon | 02/19/2011 at 12:56 PM
"Princess: I too am working towards my PHD in English."
May I nominate this for ludicrous comment of the day?
Posted by: hoofheartz | 02/19/2011 at 01:00 PM
I gotta agree Ostrich, I never understood Kaberle's reluctance to shoot. I even saw it in Boston last night. He really isn't a spotlight kind of guy.
I also think your "shooter opposite Phaneuf" theory is interesting. If that is the case, why hasn't Wilson done something about this? Why not have played Versteeg with Phaneuf? Beauchemin? The Leafs had the players to play opposite Phanuef? Why didn't Wilson understand this? IS Wilson a bad coach?
Maybe Phaneuf's biggest problem is Phaneuf. WHy can't this guy hit the freaking net? Easily as fgrustrating as Kaberle's reluctance to shoot.
Posted by: moe green | 02/19/2011 at 01:02 PM
@ moe green @ michael C. the Phaneuf shot misses because he tries to shoot it too hard. He needs to do what McCabe did, take a little off the shot and get it on the net. Friends and neighbours, TK left because of the coach. TK carried a lot of the heat because the PP didn't work. TK was admonished because he did not play hard in his own end. Yet, he was the 4th highest scorer on this team this year. And had a great plus minus on a losing team.
Wilson got his wish. Now let us see what Wilson can come up with - not just to replace TK, but to teach this team how to play the game. LOL As if they haven't been doing that for 15 or so years now.
Tonight should be an easy test if we play with any intensity.
Posted by: Robert | 02/19/2011 at 01:06 PM
@ NIk Culomin: I personally don't feel sorry for Kaberle. As you said he is a big rich boy. That said, among the group of of big rich boys that is the NHL, Kabby was and is a class act.
I don't feel sorry for Kaberle, I feel sorry for us. We may win in the long run (if the kid or the pick ever play a game in the NHL) but in the short term we are the losers. That's okay. It's part of the plan. But don't act as though Boston are fools to take Kaberle. He is widely regarded by people in the know as among the best in the game. Some of those who covet him might even know as much as you do about hockey.
VM Replies: I also don't get the hate for Kaberle. The very fact Boston was willing to give up so much only proves how much he is worth. And, yes, there were other teams very eager to take him off Burke's hands.
I mean, there are only four other defencemen in the entire league with more assists. Four! And Kaberle was playing on the 26th-ranked team in goal scoring. He's also one of only six Leafs to play in every game this season.
Posted by: moe green | 02/19/2011 at 01:08 PM
When the Leafs were contenders, Kaberle's defensive flaws could easily be overlooked. In the past several seasons however, with the goalie carousel and the defensive carousel, the only constant remained Kaberle, and all our numbers, PP, PK, GA, suffered, shining a great big spotlight on his flaws. Having said that, Kaberle is truly a class act and it wasn't his fault that we are stuck with Komisarek's contract. If not for that, I'm sure Burke could re-sign Kaberle. Burke brought this upon himself but thanks to Tomas he was able to make good and get a solid return for our best player.
Posted by: TPiddy | 02/19/2011 at 01:16 PM
Hate to see you go Kabby. Know this, for the most part, Leaf fans always supported you and never wanted to see you go! IF Leaf fans (Nik and Waffles) think you will be easy to replace, they'll be getting a rude awakening soon when they see the black hole that was left on defense by Kabby's departure. While I am satisfied with the return, you will be missed!
Posted by: gettingcozywithsarkozy | 02/19/2011 at 01:25 PM
Thanks for everything Tomas - I'll always remember you as one of the great Maple Leafs!
All the best in Boston!!
Posted by: Bill | 02/19/2011 at 01:35 PM
Hoof Heartz: Believe it or not, its true. I know I have made some preposterous claims - such as being Pat Quinn's son, but this is the truth.
Although , maybe you just meant that I am so super smart that you were surprised that I didn;t already have the PHD.
BTW for the record, I don't hate Kaberle. He is one of my favorite all time Leafs, but his time had come and it was the best thing.
Posted by: Ostrich_Lover | 02/19/2011 at 01:57 PM
Doesn't Phaneuf remind you guys or "Nuke Laloosh" from "Bull Durham?" I think his nickname should be "Nuke"
Posted by: moe green | 02/19/2011 at 01:58 PM
SO, how bad did Ottawa look last night? We have to KICK THEIR ASS!
We lost ground to Carolina last night and making it up is instrumental in the final result being a success or a non-success ( as opposed to a failure. I'm trying to be a bit diplomatic with everyone missing a piece of their heart and all).
GO LEAFS GO!! WOHOOO! GAME NIGHT!
VM Replies: God bless you, Bomber.
Posted by: Ken Baumgartner | 02/19/2011 at 02:22 PM
@ Robert: So TK was traded by BB beause he was disliked by RW because of the poor PP, PK and high GA. LOL
O and @ OL, I think it's "Ph.D."
Posted by: moe green | 02/19/2011 at 02:27 PM
Damn, caught again. Thats exactly what I was thinking OL. Super smart. As for Kaberle being traded, as I stated yesterday, my only real concern is, who will move the puck up the ice now that he is gone. I guess I just don't have the faith that others have in the rest of the D-men to do the job.
VM Replies: It's a very real concern.
Posted by: hoofheartz | 02/19/2011 at 02:29 PM
Moe I believe the word you are looking for is pedantic.
Posted by: Ostrich_Lover | 02/19/2011 at 02:35 PM
OK, It is game night and Kaberle is gone. I love the guy and all, but SEE YA.
One thing though about moving the puck up the ice we must remember. That man was not on the ice all the time. Other players did move the puck and they will be expected to move more now. I certainly expect them to.
Luke Schenn will move the puck up the ice. It excites me that he gets to grow like that because all he has done is proved he is capable at everything he is asked to do. He can move the puck.
Hey Lebda, you were exited to come here because you came out of the shadows of Lidstromm. Well you better start moving the puck up the ice because your supposed to be good at that and that is what we got you for so step up or get the heck out of here. You can move the puck.
Gunnersson son, we know you can do it my boy. Show us how you do that thing you do. There is avoid in peoples hearts and it has your name all over it. You move that puck.
Phanuef it is time to STEP YOUR GAME UP. You have been quoted as saying losing is unacceptable, What are going to do about it? When you play like a pretend leader is unacceptable. Start being the leader you know you can be. Others believe it or you would not be a captain. YOU move that puck.
Komi, well you just play defence if the puck comes to you shoot it into the corner and cover the guy in front of the net. Someone else will move the puck.
Folks we've got our puck movers.
Now let's score 8 goals tonight and make them feel a world of hurt.
Posted by: Ken Baumgartner | 02/19/2011 at 03:04 PM
Puck drops in an hour. I'm ready to see the Sens get spanked (sorry Bill). Let's DO this.
VM Replies: In an hour? What?
Posted by: Boo Who? | 02/19/2011 at 03:07 PM
Is my phone wrong? It says the game starts at 4pm EST? That's 1PM PST.
VM Replies: I think it's 7 p.m. (EST) unless there was a change.
Posted by: Boo Who? | 02/19/2011 at 03:20 PM
Vm, just one word: beautiful. Thank you for this great piece.
VM Replies: Thank you, Peter.
Posted by: Peter | 02/19/2011 at 03:33 PM
Ok, after surveying all six of the hockey related apps on my phone, I finally found one that showed which time zone it was referring to - looks like all these apps are synced to my local time. I thought it was pretty amazing the Canucks got the prime-time slot! Also teaches me to post before caffeinating.
So, sorry, sorry, puck drops in...about three and a half hours. I still want to see the Sens get spanked. And I still want to DO this.
Posted by: Boo Who? | 02/19/2011 at 03:40 PM
I've always been a Kaberle fan... I even rooted for the Czech team during the last two Olympics (I rooted for Canada too, naturally).
I think how he has been treated by the higher-ups in the last couple years has been pretty weak. He, like all players, deserves to be on a team where he is actually wanted.
I wish him all the best in Boston and beyond!!
VM Replies: Great point, Holly.
Posted by: Holly | 02/19/2011 at 03:40 PM
All I hear is there is going to be a black hole on defense.....Since when did Kaberle become the beacon of defensive physicality??????? Because he was the black hole on defense...You want to score a goal on this team push hard on his side, become physical with him and he would have back off.... Look at his first game in Boston, One game..Minus-1 FOR A PLUS/MINUS.....
I read on a philly fan site that they look forward to playing Boston in the playoffs, because all they have to do is gone down kaberle's side of the ice...This is coming from Flyer's fans. The same game plan was used against Toronto every game Kabby was here.
Since we had the next coming of Lidstrom how did our Powerplay look lately?? Kaberle was and for will always be overrated...Big fish in a small pond.....I look forward to watching him drown in the Playoffs....To show you all what a blessing it was to have him leave....
Bruins fans, you have a man with the scarlet letter of loosing soaking off his jersey...Good luck...You guys will need it
Posted by: Nik Culoman | 02/19/2011 at 04:25 PM
sad to see him go, yet understandable. I REALLY hope he doesn't get booed when he returns to the leafs. hopefully they give him a sundin type return. he certainly deserves it.
Posted by: KWood19 | 02/19/2011 at 04:39 PM
Anyone have any great music they want to share to loosen things up before game time. How about a little "In the Garden of Eden, or as its more popularily known "In a Gadda Davida"
Posted by: hoofheartz | 02/19/2011 at 04:41 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uLRnmQ-4Yp0
this should do it. My personal best song of 2010.
Posted by: Ostrich_Lover | 02/19/2011 at 05:06 PM
Tomas Kaberle had me at "hello". I remember the first time I ever saw him play. I was home from university for the Thanksgiving holiday and stayed in to watch the Leafs opener before going out with some friends. Once we all met up after the game, all we could talk about was the new kid defenceman who played as though he was a seasoned veteran. In all of his years in Toronto, he maintained a consistently high level of play, and always seemed like a genuinely nice young man. I'm looking forward to the future of this young club, but it's sad to see one of the good ones move on. Good luck Tomas, and I hope that on your first trip back to the ACC, that the crowd gives you the thunderous ovation that you have earned, and deserve.
Posted by: j-rock | 02/19/2011 at 05:28 PM
Heading out to curling league but will be back for the 2nd period...and not going to PVR game as that was a bust last week against Montreal, and superstition trumps all, as we all know. Question swirling around in my brain: will there or won't there be a game commenting thread when I return.
Posted by: wcdixon | 02/19/2011 at 05:31 PM
Phew! Didn't think I'd get home in time to read the blog and start the game.You know the funny thing with a certain bird lover is that I agree with him sometimes but his diplomacy leaves a lot to be desired.(I could be the pot calling the kettle black)(can you say that anymore?) And Moe of course if it was not for greed we would not need the cap system.I thought Sather proved pretty well in New York that you can not buy a Cup.I would still like to see a much smaller league where teams played all opponents equally.Not original six but you know what I mean.
Posted by: TimB | 02/19/2011 at 05:37 PM
Anybody remember Humble and Fred's version of "The Hockey Song"? It makes me happy that we have something great to watch tonight and not the void that was the lock-out. Go, Leafs, go!
Posted by: enJoy hockey | 02/19/2011 at 05:38 PM
Hey Hoofheartz! To go along with the Iron Butterfly I have a great recipe for Microdot Lemon Squares.
Posted by: TimB | 02/19/2011 at 05:39 PM
OL, its looks like we're never going to agree on anything but I'll fight to the death for your right to have terrible taste in music.
Posted by: hoofheartz | 02/19/2011 at 05:43 PM
5-2 Leafs!
Posted by: Alecia | 02/19/2011 at 05:44 PM
Kinda liking this new tradition of pre-game music chatter.I don't know about T.O. but in Calgary there is record shop down in Inglewood that has shelves and shelves of vinyl.Used to love to spend hours,and a few dollars,in there.Anyone know if Halifax has anything?
Posted by: TimB | 02/19/2011 at 05:50 PM
Pretty Reckless - Make me wanna die
B52s - Juliette of the Spirits or Funplex
Posted by: moe green | 02/19/2011 at 05:54 PM
Perfectly stated Vinay.
A great Leaf through and through, but this change was long overdue and long needed. I'm happy the Leafs were able to garner a decent return, and I wish only the best for Kabby in Boston. A class act right to his last game in the blue and white.
Posted by: Jeff | 02/19/2011 at 05:56 PM
Tim, there is a distinct possibility that I may have sampled those particular lemon squares in the distant past. Right now I'm listening to an acoustic version of Pride and Joy by Stevie Ray Vaughan, who I might add may be the greatest guitarist EVER!
Posted by: hoofheartz | 02/19/2011 at 06:07 PM
Nicely said Alecia, I second the 5-2 Leafs score. Lupul scores.
@ TimB: you sir are not a black pot. I would definitely like at least a home and home (silly expression) with every team in the league. None of this three years between visits to Vancouver crap.
Posted by: moe green | 02/19/2011 at 06:09 PM
Ah microdot. We were insane weren't we hoof. We should have had our heads examined. Oh yeah, that came later.
Posted by: moe green | 02/19/2011 at 06:11 PM
All you young'uns make me feel so dadgummit old with all yer new fangled music.
Posted by: hoofheartz | 02/19/2011 at 06:13 PM
Vinyl is coming back for the audiophile. I haven't touched the stuff since mp3s but I'd love to hear some of my old albums again. I mean "really" hear them. Remember when that really, really mattered.
Posted by: moe green | 02/19/2011 at 06:13 PM
@Alecia: the more I think about it, the more I think we really have to destroy the Sens. I'm calling 6-1 Leafs. It should be 6-1 Leafs. 5-2 would be perfectly lovely though.
Posted by: moe green | 02/19/2011 at 06:15 PM
5-2 sounds good to me,Alecia. And I would like to quote Vinay talking about Burke but it applies to what we all expect: for the "foot soldiers to respond to these temporary gaps in the battlefield and redefine their roles, jump into the void."
I'm ready for a good game!
Posted by: TimB | 02/19/2011 at 06:17 PM