WASHINGTON — The only way this NHL trade deadline could be more dramatic and entertaining is if the league and the Players’ Association would agree to allow teams to expressly trade cap space instead of the wink-nod bartering of it by dealing long-retired legends inhabiting long-term injury lists across the league.
But it sure would produce a lot more fun and a fair amount of additional chaos into the period that defines the deadline. Yes indeed, Craig Patrick’s deal is one of the best in NHL annals, leading directly to the first of two straight Cups and eight straight playoff round victories … but 2 versus 4, and 8 versus 19? Why, obviously … Pittsburgh!
Jean Ratelle and Brad Park for Phil Esposito and Carol Vadnais came in early November 1975. Andy Bathgate was traded to Toronto in late February 1964. The Maple Leafs traded Frank Mahovlich to the Red Wings as part of a blockbuster in early March 1968 before the Canadiens then in turn acquired the Big M in mid-January 1971.
To be the first hero for two franchises that won multiple Stanley Cup championships is an achievement of which to be especially proud.In 1988, the Blues acquired Brett Hull and Steve Bozek from the Flames in exchange for Rob Ramage and Rick Wamsley. Yes, substantial.