Beggars Can't Be Choosers: The Dany Heatley Saga

In possibly the most intriguing storyline of the opening day of NHL Free Agency, Dany Heatley has refused to waive his no-movement clause to go to the Edmonton Oilers despite demanding a trade out of Ottawa. In an extremely unique situation, because Heatley was not traded before 12AM EST Tuesday, the Senators are contractually obligated to pay Heatley a $4 million bonus. Realistically speaking, this could very well increase what the Sens feel they need to compensate losing Heatley and ultimately could ruin any chance Heatley had at getting out of Ottawa.

Clearly, Heatley is not familiar with the old addage that "Beggars can't be choosers." Presumably, Heatley must've been pretty desperate to get out of Ottawa if he had to resort to demanding a trade. So, clearly Heatley shouldn't feel that he is in a position to pick and choose potential destinations. The Senators were much more accommodating than they needed to be in going out of their way to shop Heatley and they managed to find a suitor in Edmonton. Heatley does not have the right to say "I don't like Edmonton, try again." Beggars can't be choosers, and if Heatley really wants to leave Ottawa, he is certainly a beggar.