Imagine McDavid in Toronto and all the buzz that would generate. Or buzz is the wrong word, more like an avalanche of interest.
If Buffalo at the same time could get Eichel, well then you set up a border rivalry for a long time that would be greater then the Ovi - Sid rivalry they tried to market for some years. I can definitely see Buffalo vs Leafs as the winter classic in 2017-18 with record ratings.
It all makes sense, call me biased but it really does. NHL is a business, time to act like one.
i' ve been saying this, since we've plummeted.
Before it was like a "haha, the Leafs should get McDavid."
now that there's a legitimate chance (as small as it is) that the Leafs "could" win the lottery, if I were Bettman i would seriously have to look at how it impacts the entire league.
McDavid in Toronto doubly helps Buffalo.
McDavid in Toronto helps ensure a rebuild
McDavid in Toronto generates more buzz/funds than it would in any other franchise
McDavid in Toronto = Boon for NHL, Boon for NHLPA.
Arizona could get Hanifin/Strome and it's just as good.