** Jason Blake -- A surly outcast last year, he’s now Mr. Sunshine and attempting to become the first American to lead the Leafs in scoring since Ed Olczyk 20 years ago.
Personally, I would love to see a Former Fighting Sioux Hockey player and a American born hockey player as the top scorer for the Maple Leafs.
Jason Blake is a mess after running into Colby Armstrong check.
A still woozy Jason Blake was not on the ice for the Leafs noon-hour practice today and won’t make the trip to Ottawa for tomorrow’s date with the Senators.
In his place, the Leafs have recalled tough guy Andre Deveaux from their AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies. The 24-year-old, who has yet to make an NHL start, will more than just fill the spot on the roster. With 54 penalty minutes in 13 games, he figures to add some much needed toughness.
Here is a clip about the possibility of Jason Blake being moved at the Trade Deadline.
*on Blake
Position: Forward
This year: 56 games, 22 goals, 25 assists, 47 points
Why he might be moved: The veteran forward will likely be retired by the time Toronto starts to compete for a championship.
What he might be worth: Not much. Teams may be only willing to offer a reclamation project or a late-round draft choice.
Why teams are interested: Blake may not score 40 goals again, but a disastrous 2007-08 - 15 goals in 82 games - and time spent in head coach Ron Wilson's doghouse seems to have helped the speedy winger rediscover his offence.
Why he could stay: Despite his improved numbers, the only numbers that league GMs appear fixated on is Blake's age (35) and contract (US$4-million for the next three years).
The scouts say: "I think that the way he's played this year has proven that he's a guy - when motivated - who loves to score goals. You can find fault with him, but the fact of the matter is he has been producing."
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