Trade buzz intensifies as Sundin, McCabe skip practice

Toronto Maple Leafs captain Mats Sundin and defenceman Bryan McCabe skipped Friday's team practice, increasing speculation that the team will make a move by next Tuesday's trade deadline.

Sundin, McCabe and goaltender Andrew Raycroft missed the practice after suffering flu-like symptoms, according to a team spokesman.

Leafs general manager Cliff Fletcher had a meeting with Sundin on Thursday to discuss the captain's future with the club. Fletcher also met with McCabe, who, like Sundin, has a no-trade clause in his contract that he signed two seasons ago.

"Yes, I had a meeting with Mats [Thursday] and I met with his agent J.P. Barry this morning," Fletcher told the Canadian Press.

"And, yes, I met with Bryan McCabe this morning. But at this point, that's all I'm going to say. The process is ongoing."

Barry wouldn't comment on Sundin's situation after he arrived in Toronto on Thursday.

It's believed Fletcher asked both players to consider potential teams they would waive their no-trade clause for, allowing a trade to happen.

Sundin will be an unrestricted free agent on July 1, while McCabe is locked up through the 2010-11 season.