Maple Leafs defenceman Tomas Kaberle would welcome a trade and reportedly won't return to Toronto when his contract ends next season as long as Ron Wilson is the coach, according to Kaberle's own father.
According to the Toronto Sun, Frantisek Kaberle Sr., Tomas' father, told Czech hockey magazine Hokej this week that despite the fact that his son has a no-trade clause that kicked in earlier in the week, he doesn't see his son playing for the Leafs for the entire season.
"I think that during the course of the year he will be traded to another club," Karberle said. "There is only one chance for Toronto to get something back in return for Tomas now. In my opinion, I can't see Tomas entering a new contract with Toronto. Not if Ron Wilson continues to be employed there."
For a deal to happen, the defenceman would have to tell the team which clubs he would allow a trade to. In the meantime, Kaberle's father expects his son to remain quiet on all the potential trade talk.
"I think that Tomas won't even comment on (trade possibilities) anymore.", the elder Kaberle said. "He is content in Toronto with both the club and the city.
"I still think though that some change would be welcomed."
Kaberle Sr., also weighed in on how the Maple Leafs rebuilding efforts might be hampered by the passion and expectations of 'Leafs Nation'.
"I have been following Toronto for a long time," he said. “I didn't believe it much in the beginning, but it seems that the best players don't want to go to this club.
"The reason is because of the huge pressure from the fans, and especially the media. Not every hockey player is able to deal with it."
- With files from the Toronto Sun
