Lou Lamoriello Is Not Running The Toronto Maple Leafs The "New Jersey Way", Whatever The Hell That Means

Auston Matthews signs entry-level deal with #leafs. Includes max bonuses and salary, per sources.

— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) July 21, 2016

Lou Lamoriello says Matthews contract was done in 10 minutes with agent Pat Brisson.

— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) July 21, 2016

Lamoriello says when he came to Toronto he decided that he wouldn't be operating the "New Jersey way."

— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) July 21, 2016

​Just say it Lou. Go ahead, we are all waiting. You changed. You caved. You went to a huge market and  you let it turn you into a big old softy. Max bonuses for a hockey player named Auston? I feel like I don't even know you anymore, and it's not because you're no longer doing things the "New Jersey way". It's because you're not doing things the "Lou Lamoriello way" anymore. There were nearly three decades where those things were synonymous with one another. Nearly three decades where Devils fans knew what to expect out of the man that was largely responsible for putting the team on the map and trophies in their case. We'll never forget those memories Lou, but let's not make it sound like you weren't pulling the strings on everyone of them - good and bad. These minor changes in philosophy upon arriving across the border might as well be a full fledged bi-polar disorder considering how steadfast you have always been in your ways. Rookies don't get bonuses, contracts don't get handed out midseason, and the status always remains quo. That's right, we haven't forgotten, and though you're in a much different situation now, neither should you. That "New Jersey way" of which you speak? It's one we hold close to our hearts, and we would prefer if the man that had full autonomy over instituting it doesn't talk about it like it was some hindrance on the franchise whose rise to prominence he spearheaded. 

Still makes me sick to this day. Logo on the front Lou, not name on the back....