By merely parting with a fifth-round draft pick, John Ferguson Jr. made a strong statement today that his team is for real. The Maple Leafs General Manager acquired veteran defenseman Luke Richardson in a trade with the Columbus Blue Jackets this afternoon. Turning thirty-seven later this month, Richardson is expected to add his speed and youthful enthusiasm to a tired Leafs defense. For those of you who aren't familiar with the rugged blue liner, that previous sentence couldn't be less truthful. Richardson, who began his career with the Blue and White, has lost a step over the last four or five years and has done little to contribute for the disappointing Blue Jackets this season. His stat line for the year reads: 44 GP, 1 G, 6 A, -18, 30 PIM

Does Leafs management actually think they have a shot at the playoffs following last night's win against a tired Montreal team?? Or was Richardson solely brought in to fill the roster spot when the team parts ways with Bryan McCabe during tomorrow's trade deadline??

Torontoist apologizes for the photo quality... I mean it was taken in the 80's and all.