Brian Burke, President and GM of the Maple Leafs, announced Saturday that the club has finalized a development agreement with the Zurich Lions of the Swiss Elite League. "We have a real solid two-way relationship with the Mannheim Eagles of the German Elite League and we are looking for the same results by adding Zurich as well," said Burke. "We've been able to exchange ideas in all areas of the game. The experience for the participating players and coaches over the past three years has been invaluable." "This agreement is a huge step for Swiss hockey, and together with Toronto and Mannheim, we can further grow the sport of hockey in Europe," stated Peter Zahner, CEO of the Zurich Lions.