Kadri relieved

The Knights' leading scorer didn't want to be traded.

He got this wish.

Now the coveted 18-year-old Leafs' draft pick will finish his OHL career at home, focusing on development for the NHL in the place he feels most comfortable, London. It's not that Kadri went unwanted by other clubs. Not even close. It's just the Knights couldn't get what they wanted for him.

London GM, Mark Hunter had already acquired 7 picks for 3 players before the deadline, none of whom with nearly the same value as Kadri. You can imagine the kind of package Hunter demanded in return for anything involving his best player.

Didn't happen. Couldn't happen.

So Kadri stays put, in a situation where the Knights appear to be having it both ways: rebuilding while remaining competitive. Remember, they're still in first place in the Midwest. And as they spent-to-get a season ago, due to smart management this past week, they'll get to spend again a season from now. For now, the Knights plan on spending at least two more months with one of London's all-time favourites. Doubt this bothers too many fans of the club. Afterall, Kadri owes'em a show. He set statistical goals for himself (40, 100) that can still be achieved. It's going to take some work to accomplish. Actually plenty of work. But it's all possible and realistic. And still very much worth the price of admission.