Written by Graeme Nichols | 02 July 2009

Heatley was preparing for the trade.

No doubt he started thinking about life in California, playing for a contending Western Conference team like the Sharks, or the much improved Kings. Heatley thought about the excitement of New York City and how he might fit in with the Rangers.

If any of those teams had come up with a package suitable to the Senators, this deal would be done and Heatley will be merrily on his way.

Instead, Ottawa accepted the only offer Sens GM Bryan Murray deemed worthy. The only offer he had based on an asking price some teams reveal was too steep. An offer from the Edmonton Oilers that some close to Heatley say, ''blindsided'' him.

Heatley knew Edmonton was in the mix. How could he not? From the moment news broke he had requested a trade, Edmonton has been at, or near the top of the list of likely destinations. Heatley's meeting with the Oilers brass on Wednesday night was described as very good and he liked what he heard…just not enough to waive his no-move, end this saga and join a team that is desperate to bring him on board. ~ Darren Dreger, TSN

Is blindsided the appropriate word for a guy who only has one good eye?

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