Former Bruins GM says failed Thornton to Anaheim trade story 'fabricated'

There seems to be some conflicting statements regarding a recent story about a failed trade that would have sent Joe Thornton to Anaheim instead of the San Jose Sharks in 2005. Sportsnet analyst and former Ducks GM Brian Burke recently revealed he made an offer to Boston on the morning Thornton was traded to the Sharks that he felt was better. However, the trade with San Jose was already finalized and the rest is history.

But wait! The Athletic recently caught up with Mike O'Connell, who was the GM of Boston when Thornton was traded. He says Burke's story is false.

“The details surrounding this story are fabricated and I can confirm that no such offer was made to me as I never informed Anaheim of my intentions to trade Joe Thornton,” O'Connell said. “Unfortunately, certain personalities never let the truth get in the way of their ultimate goal, self-promotion.”

Yikes! So what did Burke have to say about that? He told ESPN's Greg Wyshynski "“I wish we were in the same room, if you're calling me a liar. I've been accused of many things, but certainly not being untruthful."

Burke never revealed the names behind the alleged failed trade for Thornton, simply saying the offer included a roster player, a prospect, and a first. Thornton's trade to San Jose netted Boston a Marco Sturm, Wayne Primeau and Brad Stuart.

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