Slumping economy takes pizzazz out of deadline day

TORONTO: NHL trade deadline day failed to produce the usual fireworks on Wednesday as the world financial crisis weighed heavily on last minute wheeling and dealing.

A total of 22 trades were completed ahead of the 20:00 GMT deadline but the mood was subdued and many of the deals were of the minor variety, as general managers kept a close eye on the bottom line.

"There was none of the glitz and sizzle that used to accompany the trade deadline and I think that's a function of several factors, number one is the economy," said Toronto general manager Brian Burke.