The Sens saved some money this year and next, but are left naked on the last 4 years of Dion's contract. So they solved a problem now but created a problem later when Dion's play likely rapidly diminishes. If they were actually a top contender this deal would make sense -- get better now and take on a problem down the road. However, if Sens fans and Murray think the Sens will be competitive this year or next they are crazy. This was a win now deal by a team that is not winning now.
The Leads move on from Captain Quit. He was solid this year, and they got a 2nd and a modest prospect for him. They clear space when they will need it. They continue their promise of a culture change. Moving the crap and getting assets is the easier part of the process but they are doing it well. Moulding it all into a team is difficult and not a guarantee but it is important that they show commitment to it. And with the Phil and Dion trade, in 3/4 years from now they will have the flexibility to acquire winners rather than losers.
Conclusion
Deals are not always about who gets the better player now. Deals have to be made with knowing where your team stands. And that is how you can have two winners in a deal. But not today.
Great Deal for the Leafs. Terrible deal for the Sens.
One team knows where it is on the franchise success cycle. The other team apparently has no fucking clue.
