That’s the famous line uttered by Al Pacino as Michael Corleone in The Godfather, Part IIII. It’s an underrated flick – it got a Best Picture nomination, for crying out loud – but that’s not important right now.
Interestingly enough, Dany Heatley’s situation is the opposite of Michael’s Corleone’s: ” Just when I thought I was in, they pull me back out.” Just when it seemed certain Heatley would have to report to Senators training camp, likely with the “A” missing from his sweater, we have an noteworthy development from one of his desired trade destinations.
In a deal that seems lopsided against them at first glance, the San Jose Sharks shipped defensemen Christian Ehrhoff and Brad Lukowich to Vancouver for prospects today. Most significant about the deal is that it clears a solid chunk of cap space for the Sharks. Why would the Sharks move Ehrhoff, one of their top four blueliners, just before the season starts? There are hardly any big free-agent fish out their left to sign, unless you count Mats Sundin.
My thinking; the Sharks are prepping to make a major play for Dany Heatley. The rumored building block is already in place; Patrick Marleau is an attractive target for any team, not just because of his skill but also because he’s an unrestricted free agent next summer. If he moves his no-trade clause, he’s a logical piece to move for Heatley. The Sharks could then fill their blueline void by, say, asking for Filip Kuba for Jonathan Cheechoo.
There you have it; Heatley and Kuba to San Jose for Marleau and Cheechoo. Don’t be surprised if it happens. Something has to explain San Jose’s actions at this bizarre juncture of the offseason.
