Some Leafs Rumours

Leafs GM Brian Burke has been quite vocal of late in expressing his displeasure of the performance of several players on his team, including Nik Antropov. Read on for the latest speculations on what moves he could have in store at the trade deadline.

THE GLOBE AND MAIL: David Shoalts believes Pavel Kubina could be the next target of criticism from GM Brian Burke. Shoalts believes Luke Schenn is the only truly untouchable Leaf, and believes the contracts of Jason Blake, Niklas Hagman and Jeff Finger are keeping other teams away, and feels Burke is leaning toward retainin Tomas Kaberle. Lee Stempniak's salary for next season ($3.5 million)will make him untradeable. Burke probably wants to dump underachievers Vesa Toskala and Nik Antropov but Shoalts notes few teams are interested in a slumping goalie and a pouting center. Shoalts also claims no one is beating down Burke's door with interest in Blake.

Eric Duhatschek reports it remains to be seen how Burke plays his cards but expects he'll hold them right up to the trade deadline before swinging any deals. The lack of a star forward available at this year's deadline could improve Antropov's trade value.

TORONTO STAR: Damien Cox reports Dominic Moore's impreovement performance this season has seen his trade value soar. Neither he or his agent have been approached by Burke about a contract extension.

Kevin McGran reports forward Mark Bell, banished to the minors this season, could benefit from a change of scenery and the Leafs has told his agent they'll be cooperative if another team expresses interest in him.