As a Panthers homer who hates the Leafs, and their fans (the obnoxious ones at least), I think it would be cool to wear the jersey, and be able to play with the games premier scorer.
I just think you have to have very thick skin, and be a certain type of player, in order to face the scrutiny of the media and fans. It is too harsh IMO, and not fair. I guess coaching and management also comes into play when players are choosing between teams, and maybe they are not so appealing.
It is like the Miami Heat culture. It is not for everyone. Players know that when you go to Miami, you are going to have some of the most intense practices and workouts on a daily basis, and not all players are built for that.
I guess not all players are built to losing in the first round, so maybe that is also why they decide not to sign with the Leafs