While I don't feel that Burke "overpaid" for Kessel (as he is very talented and has 40 goal potential), one has to wonder why he could not have gotten him to sign even for 5.2 mil/season. If Burke had signed him to an offer sheet at this payment level, the compensation he would have to give the Bruins would only be a 1st, 2nd and 3rd round pick, not two 1sts. It's unfortunate he couldn't bargain down 200,000/year to save himself a first rounder.

I didn\'t happen to catch the game, so thanks for the update! Good to hear Smitty is still being Smitty. It\'s going to be a good year if he can keep up the level of play he is capable of, that\'s for sure!