Hall of Famer Almost Became A Toronto Maple Leaf

In a new episode of the First Up show on TSN1050, the group was joined by NHL Hall of Fame inductee Chris Pronger. While the guys talked about the current makeup of the Toronto Maple Leafs defense he let it slip that he was almost a Maple Leaf himself.

According to Pronger the Maple Leafs and Edmonton Oilers had engaged in trade talks that progressed but ended up breaking down. He instead was sent off to the Anaheim Ducks where he would go on to win the 2007 Stanley Cup. This is just another example of how the mid-2000s Maple Leafs had difficulty surrounding their group with more talent.

As the interview progressed Pronger talked about the current Maple Leafs team. He believes that the defensive group in particular is missing something. He says that they have the skill and puck movers to do well but are missing another vital piece.

Pronger believes that the Maple Leafs' defense lacks grit and sandpaper. A player like Pronger himself is needed according to the Hall of Fame defenseman. He believes that this missing piece will come out in particular in the playoffs when they play other teams who contain this element.

As the season wears on and the playoffs come closer it will be interesting to see if Pronger's fears become reality.