The only other possible reason for this inactivity is the pressure faced by GM's to abide by an unofficial "code of conduct" towards their fellow GM's. It is perceived as taboo around the league to offer an RFA an offer sheet. Let's remember for a minute that these general managers were hired to MANAGE THEIR TEAM; and as such make their team the best possible. In Toronto's case, Brian Burke owes it to fans and the organization to set aside the stupid fraternity rules among GM's and do what he can for his team. If he thinks four 1st round draft picks for Steve Stamkos is too much to pay, then by all means that is just cause for not submitting the offer sheet. But if he thinks having a 50 goal scoring center would help the team for the short and long term; I suggest the logical thing is to offer Stamkos a multi-year contract at $10M per season. If Tampa Bay does not match, we get our franchise player for slightly more than was paid for Phil Kessel. If Tampa Bay does match, they spend more than they intended to with their low-balling tactics, and are less able to sign additional talent. Let's not for one second forget that teams like Toronto and Tampa Bay are in direct competition for a playoff spot.
So Mr. Burke, please, at the risk of pissing off Steve Yzerman, make Steve Stamkos an offer that makes sense to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Who said that general managers have to be best friends? This is a business and Leafs fans don't give a damn for one second about taking away Tampa Bay's best player - neither should their general manager.
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