Jul 2, 2009
Heatley seeks trade…or does he?
Dany Heatley, who has averaged 45 G, 46 A in four seasons with the Ottawa Senators, has asked to be traded. Because Heatley has the power of a “no-movement” clause, a classic sports’ drama has ensued between him, his agent, the GM, and the owner. The crux of the matter had Heatley going to the Edmonton Oilers for 3 players late Tuesday night. Supposedly Heatley had all but signed off on the deal, but decided later to deny the trade. Because of his denial, the Senators were forced to pay Heatley his $4 million bonus July 1.
This is where the perverbial Jenga tower begins to shake. Heatley is due $8 million in salary next season, so any team willing to make a trade would only have to pick up half of that (the bonus is included in next year’s salary). So you can imagine the market for Heatley in a few weeks: $4 million a year for a player worth around $8-10 million? Seems like an easy answer to me. A more interesting question lies with the Senators. You’ve already been played for fools. After paying the bonus, are you already too invested that any trade would double your folly?
Read the full article here: Only one word for Heatley drama: mess
