News that Jake Gardiner had been recalled from the Toronto Marlies yesterday had a few people scratching their heads, but Brian Burke had this all worked out.

Since the Marlies don't play until Saturday, Burke decided that the kid may as well skate with the big team until it's time to actually send him down (or not). Moreover, we learned that Korbinian Holzer had not, in fact, been called up, and so no one else needed to be sent down to fill in the roster limit.

There were those that couldn't help but wonder if this signaled a trade was in the winds, but, given Burke's history (or, to borrow his term, his 'track record' - you know how he loves to talk about it), it's far more likely that he waits another couple weeks before dealing.

James Mirtle has the story:

"They never told me anything," Gardiner said. "I kind of expected something like this to happen during the year. Being a young guy, it’s part of the deal. It usually happens to people so it’s not hard on my confidence. I’ll just shake it off."

Kid has his head on straight. Read on for more links.

And Gardiner Returns…
Jonathan Willis at the Leafs Nation explains the short-term demotion and re-promotion.

That’s Rank! Pt. 2 (Midterm Edition)
Justin Fisher of Hogtown Hockey with his top five Leafs prospects. Let's not start the debate about what 'prospect' means again.

Marlies Hot & Cold: January 9th-15th
Kyle The Reporter has another update from the farm.

Less Top Six Talk, More Defensive Support
Jeffler likes Pahlsson and Moen. From LeafsHQ.

Maple Leafs Panel: All-Trade Deadline Edition
Lukas Hardonk, Mark Ascione, and Alex Mamalis have their say via The Hockey Writers.

The Leafs and the last playoff spot: 8th place by default?
My two favorite words! De fault! De fault! De fault! From Michael Langlois at VLM.

Belanger’s Third Year
Tyler Dellow shows us just how the Edmonton Oilers make trades. As Leafs fans, we want Burke trading with Tambo as soon as possible.

Ryan Miller: ‘There’s no such trade’ that can fix Buffalo Sabres this season
Great quote. From Wyshynski at PD.

From The Branches