I disagree it'd be 'just because' - how many times have we heard the '#1 CENTRE' clarion call? - but I'm not sure where I stand on Richards. My absolute ideal scenario would be a short-term deal: give him maybe two years at 7+ and evaluate his health and skills then, but that's never going to happen with Glen Sather in charge in New York, disappointingly.
I think it's a myth that the Leafs need a #1 centre. Grabbo is our guy, and will be centering Kulemin and MacArthur next year. What is needed is a centre with size to create space for Lupul and Kessel, and play in front of the net on the powerplay.
Of course, trading for Stastny or signing Richards would help. I just don't think the time is right to make a big, expensive move.