Eastern Conference Teams Assess Needs As Trade Deadline Looms, Part 2

Last night we talked about the leaders of the Eastern Conference pack. But barring the league being dipped in amber for permanent preservation, the seven teams on the outside looking in will have a say in the final disposition of playoff contention. Some will stand pat, correctly guessing that a run is either out of the question or can be accomplished with talent already on the roster. Some will sell, sell, sell. And a few will make acquisitions to get into the post season. Below the fold we'll break down the bottom seven of the Eastern Conference and see who's poised to challenge and who should be mortgaging today's assets in exchange for future glory.  Toronto Maple Leafs - Holders - The tandem of Joffrey Lupul and Phil Kessel are paying dividends for Brian Burke and Ron Wilson. Their selection to the All-Star Game along with Dion Phaneuf illustrates the youthful hopes of Burke in rebuilding the storied and Cup starved franchise. And while the addition of a center...