Though far from a franchise player, Kaberle, who turns 23 next month, is a valuable player. Lindros, eventually, will play. One day your owner will come to you with an idea. He will want a player and anoint you, the general manager, with the job of acquiring him. This is a sucker bet.
Owners know car dealerships and the best way to stack lemons in a grocery aisle.
The GM is now in a spot. Owners don't remember who made bad decisions, only that they happened under your watch. Ask former Leafs GM Cliff Fletcher, who ended up being sacked for a losing record that was in part caused by Steve Stavro's desire to land Wendel Clark for a second go-round. The general manager is spared a stiff, which is good for job security, and if the player prospers elsewhere, the GM subtly can blame the coach. Quinn the GM understandably is tantalized with the idea of acquiring Lindros.