The Dallas Start have made it clear that no contract will be made to Brad Richards. Richards, who becomes an unrestricted free agent on July 1.
Burke could trade with the Stars for exclusive negotiating rights with Richards before July 1, but what would that cost? Richards still has to waive his no movement clause. At 31, he is still considered a star player who scored 28 goals and 77 points in 72 games last season.
It would be logical for Richards to sign with a team who is a contender rather than rebuilding given his age. Does Richards make the Leafs a contender? The simple answer is NO. The Leafs simply lack depth in all positions. Adding Richards would certainly help to solidify the center spot on the 1st line, but it does not guarantee Kessel - Richards - Lupul will find the chemistry needed to be effective.
If Burke can acquire Richards at a modest salary, then that would be ideal but fans should keep in mind that Richards is in decline and probably has another two good productive years left before shades of Chris Drury start to surface.
It seems clear that signing Brad Richards to a contract only helps the immediate future but does very little long term. Burke would be wise to stay away and add more NHL calibre depth to the lineup.
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