There used to be a time when the prolific logo of the Maple Leafs would be enough to entice a hometown native to suit up for the team he idolized as a child, given the choice.
But that was before the salary cap constrained the budget of all 30 NHL franchises. And the Leafs were, what’s the word? – good.
Yes, Steven Stamkos learned his craft on Toogood pond in Unionville just north of Toronto where he strapped on the blades as a youngster. The rest is history. He was a midget star for the Markham Waxers before becoming a standout in junior and an eventual NHL first-overall pick by Tampa Bay.