Mats Sundin

I don’t get it. Mats Sundin has a no-trade clause in his contract. The Toronto Maple Leaf hockey team tried to get him to waive this condition and he refused.

What I don’t get is why many in the Toronto media are beating up on him, calling him selfish.

Let’s look at some facts.

First, Mats and the Leafs signed a contract. Both entered the agreement. It was negotiated and accepted by both parties. Is it wrong for somebody to want the other party to live up to his side of the bargain?

Second, why would somebody want a no-trade clause in a contract? In the sports world, many are treated like commodities, not people. If you are trying to live a life, you may not want to do so not knowing where you might be next week. You might want to have some stability. You might want a contract that allows you to have some control over your destiny and lifestyle. Is there something wrong with wanting the best for yourself?

Third, let’s look at the management. Why do they want to unload Sundin? They want to make the team better and make the playoffs. And why do they want to do this? They want to please the fans? I’m sure this is part of the motivation, but the other part has to do with their egos and job security. If they don't produce a winning team, then they are out the door. The other motivation is money. The more successful a team, the more money it can generate. If you don’t make the playoffs, that’s a pile of tickets you don’t sell for games.

To me, it all boils down to integrity. The pundits can debate the motivation of Mats Sundin not wanting to waive his no-trade clause. However, I applaud him. In today’s world, what’s wrong with entering an agreement in good faith with somebody and sticking with it? Sundin has done nothing wrong. He has lived up to his part of the bargain. He has played admirably. He has chosen to abide by the contract that he and the Toronto Maple Leafs agreed to. Sure, the management can approach him to renegotiate. That is fair, but if he chooses to respect what both parties signed, he is not doing wrong.

I admire that, especially when the appearance of this man seems to indicate a loyalty to the organization, his fellow players and the fans.