SPORTSNET.CA
If Toronto wants to move up to the second pick in the 2009 NHL entry draft the asking price is two defenceman and the Leafs’ own first-round pick.
Hockeycentral has been told the Tampa Bay Lightning, who will draft No. 2, say a deal would have to be a package that includes Luke Schenn, Tomas Kaberle and Toronto’s 7th overall selection.
Toronto president and general manager Brian Burke, who has made no secret of his desire to climb up the selection process, said in an e-mail no offer has been made. He also reiterated Schenn is not going anywhere and has been so informed.
The Leafs traded up in last year’s draft to select Schenn fifth overall. The rookie defenceman played in 70 games with the team this season, recording 14 points (two goals, 12 assists) and had a minus-12 rating while averaging the fourth-highest ice-time on the club (21:32 minutes per game).
With the No. 1 pick, the New York Islanders are expected to go with either John Tavares or Swedish defenceman Victor Hedman. Brampton Battalion forward Matt Duchene rounds out the top three prospects heading into the draft in Montreal on June 26-27.
