The hockey world is still buzzing about the blockbuster deal that sent Brady Tkachuk from Ottawa to Florida.

That’s where the conversation started on the Tuesday edition of Leafs Morning Take. Now that we’ve had a bit of time to digest everything, Rosie and I shared our thoughts on the trade and, more importantly, what it could mean for the Maple Leafs as they look to get back into the playoff picture. Meantime, it’s official: Mike Babcock is the new head coach of the Edmonton Oilers. We weighed in on the hire and debated whether it’s ultimately the right move for Connor McDavid and company. On top of that, the Oilers added D.J. Smith to Babcock’s staff. Smith has a connection to new Leafs head coach Jim Hiller, so we touched on that and what his addition could mean in Edmonton.

After that, we broke down what Darren Raddysh had to say as he met with the Toronto media for the first time since completing his sign-and-trade from Tampa Bay. The 30-year-old revealed that joining the Maple Leafs is, in many ways, the fulfillment of his late father’s dream. A Toronto native, Raddysh grew up cheering for the Leafs and spoke openly about how excited he is to come home and play for the team he watched as a kid. Notably, he had nothing but positive things to say about his time with the Lightning, expressing plenty of appreciation for the organization and avoiding any bitterness about the move. Raddysh also touched on his longstanding relationship with Leafs GM John Chayka, noting that the two go back to his days with the Erie Otters. Overall, it was easy to see just how much this opportunity means to him.

Then, Leafs team host Ryan Leslie stopped by to discuss a wide range of topics surrounding the Maple Leafs. He shared his thoughts on the blockbuster Brady Tkachuk trade to Florida, the growing sense of optimism around the Leafs, and his recent experience at the NHL Draft Combine in Buffalo. Leslie spoke glowingly about projected No. 1 pick Gavin McKenna, praising the young star’s competitiveness and edge. He also reflected on Easton Cowan’s growth and the Toronto Marlies’ Calder Cup championship run before weighing in on Toronto’s acquisition of Darren Raddysh. Leslie noted that everyone he’s spoken to has had great things to say about the Toronto native and added that more local players are embracing the opportunity to play for their hometown team than ever before.

David Pagnotta will fill in for Jay Rosehill on Wednesday’s edition of Leafs Morning Take. As always, he’ll bring the latest on what he’s hearing around the Maple Leafs as the rumour mill continues to churn. Plus, we’ll be joined by The Sheet’s Jeff Marek for what should be a can’t-miss conversation.

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