Unfortunate Stat Line Highlights Maple Leafs' Worst Trade in Franchise History

The Toronto Maple Leafs are heading into next season with a solid goaltending tandem of Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz.

However, goaltending has long been a controversial topic for the Leafs -- especially when it comes to developing their own prospects.

Back in 2006, Toronto made what is widely regarded as the worst trade in franchise history, dealing away goaltending prospect Tuukka Rask to the Boston Bruins in exchange for Andrew Raycroft.

The move has haunted the organization ever since. Adding to the sting, Rask went on to become arguably the best goaltender ever drafted by the Maple Leafs, despite never having played a game for them.

As per Marcussi_MA on X:

Rask carved out an outstanding NHL career, posting 308 wins across 564 games with a sparkling career 2.28 goals-against average and a .921 save percentage. He also captured a Vezina Trophy and hoisted the Stanley Cup with Boston.

For the Leafs, the lesson is clear -- patience with young goaltenders is essential. Today, the team boasts strong depth in the pipeline with Dennis Hildeby, Artur Akhtyamov, and Vyacheslav Peksa developing in the minors.

In the meantime, Toronto can rely on their current tandem of Woll and Stolarz. While goaltending appears stable for now, the organization will be reminded for years to come of the painful lesson learned from that two-decade-old mistake.