Leafs-Blackhawks Talking Trade?

Reports out of Toronto this past weekend suggest the Toronto Maple Leafs and Chicago Blackhawks might be talking trade.

Leafs GM Brian Burke admitted Friday he has some irons in the fire regarding possible trade scenarios although of course he wouldn't say with whom or which players he might shop.

The Blackhawks meanwhile need to dump some salary now if they wish to officially re-sign pending restricted free agents Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews and Duncan Keith to extensions, as their new salaries starting next season could push the 'Hawks to nearly $60 million in payroll for next season. That would violate the league's "tagging" rule, which says no team can commit more to next season's payroll than the current season's salary cap, which is $56. 8 million for 2009-10.

A report in Monday's Toronto Sun claimed the Blackhawks had scouted the Toronto Marlies weekend games while the 'Hawks assistant GM took in Saturday's Leafs-Washington Capitals game.

SPECTOR'S TAKE: It's believed the 'Hawks would have to dump around $2 million - having already shaved over $400K from their payroll by waiving center Andrew Ebbett - but as the Sun noted today don't expect Patrick Sharp,Kris Versteeg or Cam Barker to be moved.

Defenseman Brent Sopel is the name oft-mentioned but it remains to be seen if Burke would be willing to add him to his Leafs roster. He might want something else, like a second round draft pick, in return. The 'Hawks won't want any salary in return so they're probably interested in a prospect and perhaps a draft pick.