The latest on on the Leafs, Red Wings, Flyers, Bruins, Stars and more in your Sunday Rumor Roundup.
Leafs getting calls for James van Riemsdyk.
OTTAWA SUN: Bruce Garrioch reports NHL trade chatter is expected to increase in the coming weeks as more teams (New Jersey, Philadelphia, Columbus) fall by the wayside in the playoff chase while bubble teams (Senators, Maple Leafs, Wild, Stars) desperately try to close the gap on a playoff berth…The Leafs are getting plenty of calls regarding winger James van Riemsdyk and defenseman Morgan Rielly but they’re not going anywhere. Despite trade rumors about Phil Kessel and Dion Phaneuf the Leafs could have a difficult time moving their expensive contracts. The Leafs would like to trade David Clarkson but there’s not expected to be much interest in his $5.25 million annual cap hit…The Vancouver Canucks seek a top-six forward. Winger Zack Kassian and goalies Eddie Lack and Jacob Markstrom could become trade chips…The San Jose Sharks have been unsuccessful in their efforts to trade pending UFA forward Tyler Kennedy…At some point the Edmonton Oilers will move defenseman Jeff Petry…Buffalo Sabres GM Tim Murray remains patient with trade bait Chris Stewart, Drew Stafford and Torrey Mitchell. It’s believed the Flames and Bruins are interested in Stewart…The LA Kings could seek forward depth…The Winnipeg Jets have nine defenseman and could shop Adam Pardy…What will the Arizona Coyotes do with captain Shane Doan? He’s got a full no-movement clause and it’s believed he doesn’t want to leave, but that might change next season when he’s a few months from UFA status…If the Florida Panthers fall out of playoff contention forwards Tomas Fleischmann, Scottie Upshall, Sean Bergenheim and Tomas Kopecky will be shopped…Garrioch wonders if the Bruins could pursue Dallas Stars winger Erik Cole as a playoff rental player.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: I’ll be very surprised if the Leafs dealt JVR or Rielly. While I don’t doubt there’s interest in Kessel and Phaneuf, their contracts won’t be easy to move, plus they also have limited no-trade clauses. The Leafs won’t get fair value for either player because they’re dealing from positions of weakness. The best you can say about moving either guy is it sheds significant salary. And there’s no market for Clarkson, even if you eat half his salary…The Canucks want scoring help but GM Jim Benning’s made it clear he’s not looking for a quick-fix deal and won’t part with his promising young players…There’s no market for Kennedy…At this point, Stewart is a trade target of last resort, thanks to his poor numbers and the asking price of a top prospect and first-round pick…If Doan doesn’t want to leave there’s nothing the Coyotes can do…If the Bruins play themselves into a playoff berth perhaps they could have some interest in Cole as a rental.
TORONTO SUN: Rob Longley reports of the ongoing speculation the Maple Leafs current troubling situation could lead to a complete overhaul, led by team president Brendan Shanahan. Pending UFAs Cody Franson, Daniel Winnik and Mike Santorelli could be moved at the March trade deadline. Joffrey Lupul (if he can ever stay healthy) and Jake Gardiner might attract interest. Longley acknowledged the call of Leafs fans for captain Dion Phaneuf to be dealt but wondered which team would take on his lengthy and expensive contract and what kind of return the Leafs could get. Longley also notes the conundrum facing the Leafs regarding star Phil Kessel. If Shanahan decides to move Kessel, will he fetch a fair return?…Steve Simmons believes winger James van Riemsdyk is the easiest player for the Leafs to move given his potential and reasonably affordable contract. Simmons believes there’s a market for Dion Phaneuf but doubts the Leafs get any kind of equal value in return. He also believes the best time for the Leafs to make their major deals is this summer.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: If I were in Shanahan’s shoes I’d ship out those UFAs you either cannot afford to re-sign (Franson could fall into that category) or those you don’t want to re-sign. After that, I’d hold off making any significant moves until I decided to either retain Dave Nonis as GM or replace him. If it’s the latter, I’d waste no time firing Nonis at season’s end in mid-April (because the Leafs won’t make the playoffs at their current rate) and try to hire a replacement by no later than May 15. I’d also waste little time shopping for a full-time NHL head coach. Fortunately there’s a decent market of available candidates this summer (including such notables as Dan Bylsma, Kevin Dineen and Pete DeBoer. Sorry Leafs fans, but Mike Babcock ain’t comin’ to Toronto). I’d want that new coach and GM in place by no later than June 1 because I want their input on the players worth retaining, possible trade partners for the players I want to move and which prospects to pursue in the draft. But I’m not in Shanny’s shoes, so who knows what he’s got in mind.
THE BOSTON GLOBE: Fluto Shinzawa reports the cap-strapped Boston Bruins could have difficulty re-signing pending UFA center Carl Soderberg, speculating another club could snap him up on the open market this summer by dangling offers of $5 million per season or more…The Bruins haven’t eliminated Buffalo Sabres winger Chris Stewart as a trade deadline pickup, provided the Sabres lower their asking price…Winger Alex Tanguay could draw attention if the Colorado Avalanche shop him at the trade deadline. He’s signed through next season earning $3.5 million annually and is on pace to score 22 goals this season.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: The Bruins must also re-sign RFAs Dougie Hamilton, Torey Krug and Reilly Smith and they’ll all want significant raises, complicating efforts to retain Soderberg…Any GM desperate or crazy enough to pony up a top prospect and first-round pick for Stewart should be fired immediately on grounds of incompetence. Stewart’s just not worth that type of return. The Sabres will be lucky to get a second-round pick for him…Given Tanguay’s chemistry with Jarome Iginla this season I doubt the Avs put him on the block.
DETROIT FREE PRESS: Helene St. James notes the Red Wings defense corps lacks a right-handed shot while only one regular forward shoots right. She suggests Toronto’s Cody Franson, Ottawa’s Eric Gryba, Edmonton’s Jeff Petry, Buffalo’s Tyler Myers and Carolina’s Justin Faulk as possible trade options.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: Of these their best ones are Franson and Petry. St. James notes Gryba’s offensive game is limited. The asking price for Myers is so high (A good young player, a first-round pick and a top prospect) I doubt the Wings will pay it. I also doubt the Hurricanes will move Faulk, seeing him as a key piece of their impending rebuild.
PHILLY.COM: Frank Seravalli speculates the declining Canadian dollar and a potentially lower-than-expected salary cap ceiling for 2015-16 could hurt the Flyers chances of moving one of their defensemen – Braydon Coburn ($4.5 million), Nick Grossmann ($3.5 million) or Luke Schenn ($3.6 million) – under contract for next season.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: The lower-than-projected cap could scare off some teams from pursuing any of those blueliners. Then again, those with lots of cap space looking to boost their defense could still come calling.
THE DALLAS MORNING NEWS: Mike Heika lists forwards and pending UFAs Erik Cole and Shawn Horcoff as players the Dallas Stars could shop by the trade deadline if they fall out of playoff contention by then. Heika also notes the Stars are seeking a top-four defenseman with size. Possible trade targets could include Arizona’s Zbynek Michaek, Toronto’s Cody Franson or Dion Phaneuf or Ottawa’s Marc Methot.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: If the Stars fall completely out of playoff contention in a month’s time, Cole and Horcoff are goners. Franson, Methot and Michalek would make solid rental players if the Stars are still in the hunt. Phaneuf is too expensive and the Stars might not be on his list of acceptable trade destinations.
I have been saying 2nd rounder for Stewart all along. I hope we are both right. IMO – Leafs would be crazy to shop JVR unless the comeback is impossible to refuse. He’s a really good player, but not THAT good to bring back a major haul.
I wonder if the Canucks would be willing to take either Rob Scuderi or Robert bortuzzo plus for zach kassian now that Kevin bieksa is going to miss significant time? Kassian in the Penguins bottom 6 would be the last piece needed to help a HEALTHY Penguins team to a deep playoff run. If the Penguins include draft picks in the deal they could use them to aquire some scoring.
The last thing Pittsburgh should be doing is sacrificing defensive depth with Olli Maatta gone for the season. Especially for an unproven commodity like Kassian.
I think Stewart will end up in Pittsburgh and I would keep Bortuzzo if I were the Pens.
Want a tough and gritty winger who fights and can mayne put up 15 goals??? Do the Leafs have a deal for you!
If guys are willing to trade assets for Stewart at $4.2 and then re-sign him for term, I don’t know why the Leafs couldn’t at least talk to them about taking Clarkson (eating salary or taking a terrible deal back) instead for no assets in return.
As bad as Clarkson has been this year, he’s still playing better than Stewart. The term on the Clarkson deal is just so bad, though. Maybe in two years this is doable.
I don’t see Stewart going to the pens unless the asking price drops considerably. Honestly my pick is Erat out of Arizona for fourth round pick. The right mix of scoring, grit, and a bottom six winger with some pop and could slide into top six like Comeau. Right player with low cost. Stewart for a second is better then what’s been asked but I don’t see the pens parting with a first and second this year unless it’s a massive upgrade coming back.
Pens want nothing to do with Stewart and his 4.2 million dollar contract, Kassian is only 1.76 and he’s signed through next season. Want nothing to do with Erat who was garbage even when Washington traded forsberg for him. I don’t want to deal bortuzzo either but he’s the most expendable d man we have aside from Scuderi who is useless and no one would take even if we ate some of his salary. You have to give to get and I’m not willing to trade Dumoulin or Harrington and the way Pouliot played against the Hawks I think we witnessed his NHL birth and if so he can replace Maatta for this season and Martin next season. I’m not sure who you were referring to on the leafs but that roster sucks so no thanks. This one move and getting healthy could make all the difference in the pkayoffs.
You really don’t know anything do you.
The Oilers (29th), Leafs (26th) and Flyers (25th) are among the league’s worst teams wrt goals against yet all three teams are rumoured to be trading/selling defensemen. I don’t get it.
Maybe a 3 way deal? lol
In Philly’s case, they are desperate to shed some salary for cap space and have some quality defensive prospects in the system, although arguably none of those players (Morin, Sanheim, Gostisbehere, Hagg) are NHL-ready.
Lyle,
I agree with your assessment for the Leafs. As a Leafs fan, it’s time for the painful rebuild and not the half-assed attempts to plug holes and ignore the glaring issues. Problem is, the TO media or a majority of “fans” won’t accept a long rebuild which is what is really needed. They need to fill the minors and let them develop properly (ie. Detroit/Grand Rapids) while bringing in smart contracts and re-signing good players intelligently. Sure there are going to be guys that deserve high dollar, long term contracts but not everyone should get one and also limit the no movement/no trade/limited trade clauses.
If a player decides they don’t necessarily want to be in Toronto come FA time, then attempt to sign him sure, but, quit overpaying just to “keep” or “get” someone.
Painful as it sounds the Leafs gotta blow it up. The Loonie dropping means prolly a small cap increase at most IMO.
Boston n Philly r really screwed with their cap mgmt n i see nobody will be dumb enough to help them. Aa for the same ol players being mentioned for months I expect very lil happening on them moving. Bad contracts for poor results r untradeable anchors. ROR n Phaneuf n Yandle will be in high demand
“The Leafs won’t get fair value for either player because they’re dealing from positions of weakness.”
In Phaneuf’s case the “position of weakness” is created by the player himself. Lets face it, he sucks. Not worth the contract he is signed to or anything more than a 3rd rounder
I really liked Dion when he broke in with calgary. But something happened along the way with the player and everything has suffered from that point. It’s a case of a player peaking early and letting it all go his head.
One word…Elisha
Lots of talk about Franson. Personally I hope the Leafs do not trade him as I believe it will signal to the fan base that changes are coming. I believe that they have at least entered into preliminary discussions with him. Even if Franson wants $5mil, unless he gets a top prospect or 1st/high 2nd round pick then keep him for the remainder of the season…whats there to lose? I do believe that although the current management team hasn’t lost faith in Phanuef, they aren’t deaf to their fanbase or ownership ($$$). There is a very loud and vocal group (minority or majority can be deabated) of fans that wants this “core” blown up. No one likes being the whipping boy, and thats what Phanuef is going to be for the remainder of his time in Toronto unless they win a cup or he somehow wins a Norris trophy. I don’t think it would be to hard to get him to waive his no-trade clause at this point.
As for Clarkeson, he’s a lifer in TO. If the Leafs were to retain 40% (thats the max right?) of his contract they’d still be on the hook for $2.1mil. Figure they are probably going to be paying his replacement anywhere from 2.5-3.5 and mathematically they just aren’t much further ahead.
Here’s hoping that on the trade deadline someone phones up Shanahan (most likely be the defacto GM at that point) and offers up an outrageous last minute panic deal for Kessel. I like what Kessel can do when he is hot, but he (IMO) isn’t a fit in Toronto and I don’t think the Leafs will be able to find that piece (1st line C) that compliments him and turns the Leafs into a contender. They were always trying to find Sundin a winger, and they never could…now its the same story, and it’ll be the same result. But Kessel could fetch the Leafs a high prospect that has the potential to be that 1st line C, and JVR has the skills to be “that” winger to compliment him.
I don’t think Kessel will get moved on a panic deal. Guys with contracts like that take time….a lot of time to move. See Nash, Loungo etc. And before anyone jumps down my throat, It isn’t a value thing, it’s a money thing. With a great deal of uncertainty surrounding the cap / Canadian dollar, I highly doubt ANY player with large multi year deals (6+ million 3-4+ years) get moved at the deadline.
Agreed, could be some dollar for dollar deals but besides that I cant see any building of the future type deals comimg in season.
As far as Franson…he has really impressed me this season as well but if he is looking for a 7 year deal you have to move him before the deadline…cant continue to let guys go for nothing or4th rond picks MacArthur Kuli Bolland sit on Grabo when there where offers for him the previous season then buy him out a year later…now could be stuck with Lupul after offers for him at last years deadline, the Leafs have to start to get return on investment, oneway or another. They lose all leverage, not that they have much now as a bottom team but after the deadline be it in negotiations with Franson or trading his rights to other GMs they are at the absolute lowest they could be . If there are hints of Franson wanting that long a deal you start taking calls on him tomorrow.
To the wall of text above.
Of course change is coming.
It has to.
The biggest question for Brendan Shanahan, moving forward, is whether or not he feels that Nonis will continue to be the GM. Unlike your opinion, I believe that if he thinks that a change in GM is needed, then Nonis should be fired ASAP, rather than at the end of the season. It would be unwise if Shanahan allowed somebody who will not be there long-term to make potential deals for the long-term. Shanahan could act as interim GM until one is hired, using the same time frame as you noted above.
Granted, Nonis could always “ask permission from higher-ups” to make any trades at the deadline, allowing a little more wiggle room for Shanahan should the trades backfire, as he can then blame Nonis for any disastrous trades, but most fans should be able to see through the facade.
Of course, this is the Toronto Maple Leafs that we are talking about, and wisdom has not always been present since the Ballard era.
I sort of agree, but I think that maybe the reason for not firing Nonis could be as a go between for the short term…not sure with the lack of experience Shanny Dubas Hunter or Pirdham, have its exactly the best case scenario when dealing with other GMs and agents…way I see it iits probably a group meeting coming to a decision and sending Dave in to the room with “this is what we want (as a group) do this and only this…or else” instructions I think its a grooming process for the group and the one who seems most comfortable with the role or is mostready will assume the roll, possibly if not that could fire Dave then and bring in another experienced guy.
I think that Shanahan’s mind is made up and that Nonis will be replaced by one of the new guys. That means no moves until season’s end and then the new GM will hire a coach, replace some scouts, and start to revamp the core.
Toronto need to look west to the Winnipeg jets, a team with a GM that is being patient and building thru the draft. A team that now has an identity of big, fast, tough and hard working. A team that is now known to have some really talented prospects. Winnipeg will be in the payoffs this year, they won’t win the cup; but, the team is absolutely heading in the right direction. The success a GM that is patient, building thru the drafts, not making trades because the fan base wants it and hiring the right coach for the players on his team. Also of note their gm came from Chicago a team that knows a little something about building a winning team.
Good point but we’re talking about a completely different situation with polar opposite fans. That’s why I pull for the Jets to stay competitive and for the dollar to stabilize – Jets fans are the best and they deserve every good thing that happens in Winnipeg.
Bruins need to find a way to resign Soderberg.
Hamilton smith and Krug also.
If this means letting veterans like Campbell Bartkowski Maquaid and Paille walk that’s ok. Younger guys are ready to move up. Spooner can take Campbells spot.
They made the mistake this year moving Boychuck when guys like Kelly,Bartkowski and Maquaid couldve been moved instead.
Smith could be a good trade chip to get a playoff rental.
Solderberg has been the most interesting player that could be traded this year in my mind. He is already a solid contributed with more potential upside than he has shown. I would hink the Bruins could get a solid offer for him and having Krejci and Bergeron in the middle it makes little sense to retain a guy who is possible going to recieve 5 mil a season. Something has to give. Perhaps in the off season. I can see many teams interested in any of those three guys,
hes also a ufa so the bruins will keep him till the end of the year and he will probably walk
Bruins cap problems r at the heart if it all. Chiarelli’s mess.
Still lots of talent n he will get grinded hard to make any trades.
This waiting till the trade deadline is dumb dumb dumb to put it lightly. If I knew I wanted to make trades and was making the playoffs, trade earlier….like in January to give the new guy(s) time to gel with the team. Not this 4 weeks to fall in line and go on a playoff run BS.
Would the Wings trade Dekeyser to TO for Franson? or is that too steep a price? What about Helm or Miller?
As for the other Leaf assets. Leafs Brass would be IDIOTS to trade away Kessel or Phaneuf. They integral pieces to having a winning franchise. Listening to the T.O. media and fan “outcrys” is just DUMB! If the Leafs organization should have learned ANYTHING from the last 50 years is that the Leafs fans are ALWAYS going to be there, the building is ALWAYS going to be sold out REGARDLESS of how well/poor the team is doing and if they REALLY want to give the fans what they deserve, they will build the team “the right way” the DET/ANA/LA/CHI way. Draft high and smart, don’t push the kids into the spotlight until they are REALLY ready and then fill in the gaps with reasonable URFA signings. Kessel and Phaneuf are cornerstones.
F
JVR/???/Kessel
???/???/???
Komorov/Bozak/Clarkson
Winnik/Holland/???
D
Phaneuf/???
???/???
Reilly/Holzer or Pollak
G
???
Bernier
THAT is the core that should be built around. Kadri/Lupul/Franson/Gardiner/Robidas/Reimer should all be dealt suggested/possible returns listed below.
Franson should be re-signed if possible and placed on the right side of the 2nd pairing.
Players to focus on acquiring via trade…
– Yakupov and Schultz from EDM (Kadri and Reimer should be more than enough + add a 2nd 2015 if it means being able to land Dreiseital as well)
– Coburn/Grossman from PHI (maybe for Robidas straight up? Upgraded D for TOR and cap savings for PHI)
– O’Reilly and Landeskog from COL (Franson, Gardiner and Lupul should be enough, add Holland/Percy/2nd 2015 if required).
Just my thoughts as this would result in…
F
JVR/???/Kessel
Yakupov/O’Reilly/Landeskog
Komorov/Bozak/Clarkson
Winnik/Holland/???
D
Phaneuf/Coburn or Grossman
???/Schultz
Reilly/Holzer or Pollak
G
???
Bernier
Yes, I know there are still some important holes, but they can be filled in time. If Dreiseital gets acquired, then keep Bozak in the #1C slot and place him in the #3C slot until he is ready to take Bozaks job and flip with him in 2-3 years. Holland can be moved up the depth chart too unless he is dealt to get one of the pieces I listed. The roster I propose is younger, better, faster, but also further away in development than many/all of the players being shipped out to acquire them. The biggest piece is going to be Franson. And who knows? Maybe he comes back and to be re-signed by the Leafs again in the summer.
@hollywood.
You need to stop hitting the bong before you post. All of those trades are laughable. Use that brain God gave you buddy.
I’m going to give you the benefit of the doubt and assume you proposed those trades because you made them on a video game. Regardless, you’ve proposed some of the worst ideas ever.
I realize Schultz and Yakupov have struggled, but Yakupov is only 20 years old and was a 1ST overall pick two years ago. Drasaitl was drafted 3rd overall like 6 months ago. Edmonton isn’t going to just give them away. On the logic that Drasaitl is only worth a 2nd rounder, William Nylander is only worth a 2nd, right?
I do like Kadri, but him plus a backup goalie and a 2nd isn’t going to net you a 1st and 3rd overall pick from the last three drafts. Hell, I doubt Kadri + Reimer + a first would net you Yak and Leon. The Leafs also don’t need another defenseless D in Schultz.
Nobody wants Robidas. He’s old and on a three year deal and is coming off of TWO broken legs. He’s signed until he is 39. I’d be amazed if anybody takes him, regardless of how much salary Toronto keeps.
Franson, Gardiner and Lupul won’t get you Landeskog and O’Reilly. Not even close. But hey, let’s throw in a 2nd, because Leafs fans never give up 1sts in proposals.
Lupul is as injury prone as they come. They’d be lucky to be able to move him at all. Franson is a free agent at the end of the season, but he still has value, and Gardiner’s contract looks pretty bad right now, but he can probably be moved for something. Just nothing close to those two.
I’m ignoring the fact that Landeskog is Colorado’s captain. I’m ignoring the fact he’s super young. I’m willing to bet there is nothing Toronto could offer Colorado to make that deal happen. A band-aid, a decent D on an expiring contract, and a once-hyped prospect on a bad deal isn’t going to net you two top six forwards. Or even one for that matter.
Would you trade JVR and Kadri for Nick Holden and Tanguay? No? Then why would Colorado make that deal?
I’m a Habs fan, and I know I’m biased towards my team’s players, but I wouldn’t suggest Parenteau, Emelin, Tinordi and a 2nd could land my team Landeskog and O’Reilly. Yet you’ve turned your teams garbage contracts and expiring deals into gold. Keep dreaming, man.
Sorry, should be posted at above comment. My bad.
Hollywood….. im sorry those trades are just plain dumb! go back to the drawing board and come back with some new proposals
Two times in one week I’m in agreement with you…STOP IT!!!!
WOW! First of all, no way that many trades take place. Leafs lucky if they can pull off one half decent trade. Colorado would be stupid to make that trade. Philly as well. Only way that happens is if Colorado brass and Philly brass are Leaf fans which I staunchly doubt.
Yak and Shultz??? Do you watch hockey? Or just occasionally browse the highlights? If the Leafs traded any depth for these two I’d probably have to go find myself a Wings jersey…Shultz is Gardiner, except even worse in his own end and at the end of a $3.6mil contract. He’s going to be looking for the same $$$ as Franson. Yaks has maybe 2-3 seasons left in the NHL, then I’m almost positive he bolts for the KHL. He has skill, but lacks size and heart…so exactly how does he help the Leafs? Dreiseitel is an unproven quantity at this time with projected top 9 potential. If the Oil were to include Nurse in a package, maybe…but not for Kadri.
I am NOT suggesting all can be done NOW! but between now, the trade deadline and the off-season… why not? I KNOW Gardiner and Schultz are the same and that Schultz has worse +/- stats, but his team is worse and he logs ALLOT more minutes than Gardiner does. PLUS he is an offensive threat with a right handed shot. He is younger and cheaper than Franson and will provide greater offense.
As for Yakupov. He is buried on the EDM roster and playing 3rd/4th line minutes. He needs more ice time and more/better opportunities with the puck. No different than Kadri 4 years ago when he struggled so much and everyone wanted him gone. and now? nobody thinks he should be traded? like he is the best thing around?!?!? Please he is an average at best undersized #2 center. His offensive abilities are better than many but his D game lacks intelligence and consistency. FYI, you would be hard pressed to find a guy who watches and follows hockey from coast to coast more than me. also, I am NOT a Leaf fan. I am a HOCKEY fan, and I mention what I think are options for the Leafs simply because that is the theme to most of the articles in this posting as well as the fan responses. SHEESH!
Shultz is 5″ shorter than Franson and gives up about 30lbs as well. Yes Franson isn’t a “hard hitting” d-man, but Shultz will never be more than a quick offensive minded D-man. As Franson has consistently put decent points up for dman, and has a more complete game I wouldn’t take him over Shultz. Shultz is only 3 years younger and will be looking for a big raise, probably similar in $$$ to Franson. His game is similar to Gardiner’s, and as the Leafs already have Reilly and currently Gardiner, trading for Shultz makes no sense at all.
meant to say I wouldn’t take Shultz over Franson
Hollywood…. you might watch a lot of hockey but your understanding of trades is very low!! those trades would never happen ever please think before you start these proposals
It’s not questioning your being a fan, it’s questioning your knowledge of anything other than what you would love to see the Leafs get. Landy and O’Rielly would net AT LEAST a top pair dman, two replacement forwards and a 1st and 2cd. You’re talking about one of the most talked about assets that people believe will be moved (ROR) and the second pick overall, youngest captain of, star in the making power forward that is Gabe Landeskog. He is having a down year, but even if he had no goals, 4 assists and was a minus 50 there is no way the Avs trade just him for what you are pretending they offer. The other trades other fans can rip you apart on, but to suggest that the only player to win 3 Conn Smythes and possibly the best goalie ever (Patty Roy) and a top ten scorer all time and one of the most respected and cerebral players of his generation (Sakic) would entertain anything close to this is insulting. That is why people are reacting to you in this way. Try offering something realistic in at least one of your deals and people won’t question whether you are a fan or a troll trying to drum up attention with such stupid ideas.
You said:
“– O’Reilly and Landeskog from COL (Franson, Gardiner and Lupul should be enough, add Holland/Percy/2nd 2015 if required).”
I say “holy poop”
Never will happen at any point.
ROR is worth at least that, not including Landeskog. An ufa and Mr. Glass, and an overpaid AHL dman…lol…too funny
” I don’t always smoke crack, but when i do i like to jump on the rumor boards”
Buddy you had better put the crack pipe down! You won’t get driasatl for 2015 2nd rd pick it ll cost you rielly that s gauranteed hsha landeskog and rot will cost you your. 1st rd pick jvr +
yeah these are some all around bad trade proposals
Is this a joke?
And 2nd I’m sorry but if the leafs make Kessel available all 29 teams will be calling and no one will care about his contract
Franson, gardiner and Lupol for oreiley alone doesn’t get it done but you think you can get landeskog too?!? That’s the Avs captain and, unlike dion, is a great leader and still young. In fact landeskog is as untouchable on that team as duchene and mackinnon. You’re offering a ufa, a terrible, over paid defenseman, and a man that might as well be made of glass for 2 excellent 2 way players that also happen to be the Avs 3rd and 4th best players?? Wow that is leaf fan dreamin on such a winters day. You want to trade old man Robidas to the flyers for the only 2 guys on that team that can pass for defensemen and neither are even 30 years old. The kadri and Reimer for yak and Shultz is the closest to reality of the three and the leafs are going to need to add maybe Percy and a third. Go fish
Is there a trade for Stewart possible if they include a second rounder? Stewart + second rounder for someone’e first?
Would the Sabres be willimg to let Stewart go for so little? Realistcally it might only be moving up a few draft spots..Gotta figure there os not mich difference in Buffalos 2nd which could be the in the neighborhood of 32 33 pick and say a contenders team which could be 25 or lower…depends on the team I guess?
Let Chris Stewart go for so little? Chris Stewart makes $4.2 and has 6 goals this year…
That’s David Clarkson-level bad.
Only thing good about Stewart is he only has a year left on his deal.
No commitment to Stewart for next year – he’s a rental where Clarkson is a boat anchor.
I can’t believe that after all these years of reading this site, my very first post will be to comment on the leafs… I do not want to poison the blue kool aid anymore than it already is….
If the leafs are serious about moving phaneuf, Kessel and clarkson; and are successful in moving them in the next season or two, a rebuild is under way and leafs nation should support it and be Patient. Only get their hackles up when management tries for a quick fix by signing or trading for players that “once were”.
I have a hard time understanding how a player like Richards is going to help the club improve in the short term let alone over the next five years.
I don’t know where all these comments come from about fans and media not wanting a rebuild? I’ve never seen anyone say this.
In my mind, it’s the greedy ownership (the current group and the prior ones) that won’t take the short term hit for the long term good.
Depends on what you consider short term and how much good is in the long term…alot of these complete rebuilds take the better part of a decade or longer and as of yet have yeilded little results…Chicago and Pitsburgh were lucky, outside of that look at the others who have used this model. The Islanders have been bad for years, look better now but still havent really won anything Tampa Bay has had Stamkos for 6 years and are just now starting to turn it around the Oilers are well, the Oilers Jets have b=n building dince they were the Thrashers and Arizona has been building since they were the Jets, Panthers…on and on with the “5 year plans” that all take over 5 years, the Avs are not really any closer and they have loads of good picks over the past while…just because you call it a rebuild doesnt mean for sure you are going to get any better.
Well the current core isn’t going anywhere so you need to at least retool if not rebuild unless you’re happy just being mediocre – and I’m not sure that they aren’t happy because it’s always been that way.
If they trade out the UFAs and move a couple pieces of the core like Phaneuf and Bozak and one of the goalies all for prospects or young players let’s say.
There’s no guarantees, but I don’t see how they wouldn’t be better when those young players develop along with some of the kids they have now and new picks in 5 years time.
If they completely blow it up and move out everyone they can except Rielly and maybe Kadri for picks and try and do it through the draft, yeah, that’s going to take more than 5 years and maybe not work at all – I agree on that.
honestly the leafs should offer kessel Phaneuf and clarkson as a package for nothing, just to get out from under the contracts., would Buffalo do that? The truth is Toronto needs to be rebuilt and giving away kessel to get rid of the dead weight instantly makes the team better long term..
So you want Buffalo to absorb over 20 million per year for those 3 players lol lol, Buffalo are in rebuild mode and do not need overpriced underachieving players
agreed Sheldon, Sabres don’t need dmen, they don’t have a center to feed Kessel. Leafs are stuck with the three stooges for some time.
So TSN is reporting today that the Dallas Stars have interest in either Franson or Phanuef. As Dallas is fairly weak on the back end, I’d wager that they have more interest in Phanuef as they want and need some long term help. Franson would only be of interest if Dallas felt they could re-sign him. Trading Phanuef to the stars would require something of interest coming back to Toronto. Possibly Oleksiak and Roussel and the remainder of Horcoff’s cap hit this season. Oleksiak has huge potential (as he is a giant) but big guys don’t always adjust to the NHL’s speed, and take longer to come into their own if they do. Roussel would look good on any teams 3rd line, and Horcoff would balance out the cap hit. All this being said, if Dallas knew they could re-sign Franson I’m sure he’d be their first choice over Phanuef.
Soderberg may be an excellent 3rd line center but 5 million is crazy talk. If he wants to stay in Boston 3 years 10 million. This summer it’s time for Kelly to go and no need to resign Campbell and Paille it’s time for the kids to start playing. Krug and Smith have not shown enough for huge money so maybe another one year deal at 2 million.
Agree Soderberg is a good center but not sure 5 million per.
Other ideas are spot on. Campbell has been playing good lately but can be replaced by youth Spooner or koko. Paille just sucks.
Krug is playing pretty good but Smith is streaky.
Only value Leafs players have is what another GM offers. No offers means not highly thought of or sought after. Say what u will or who for who but don’t hokd your breath.
I think nick grossmann would be good fit for young islanders team or Montreal. Be shut down damn playoffs. Salary a problem a B prospect or 3 or 4 pick might do
I would think they Flyers would take either, as they need to clear room, and have young guys in the pipe.
How about…
ROR, Stuart or Holden, Stephan Elliot and a second for JVR and Phanuef (1.75 mil cap hit held by TOR)?
Phanuef isn’t going to get them ROR by himself, and JVR can at least replace the top 6 forward they are losing. I would (if I were GM) part with a 1st instead of 2cd rounder if the Leafs add their 2cd and/or a 4th or only give up the other pick if the Avs make the playoffs.
The Avs don’t need to move anyone, and if they miss the playoffs they are in good position to get a good player in the draft and still have a year to sign/ move O’Rielly. They also have some cap room due to having almost 5 mil off the books with not resigning Briere; even if they sign the other players that are UFA.
Avs are working from a position of strength, other teams that really want ROR are not working from a position of strength. It’s easy to ask for the moon when you are in that position.
Thats the thing tho the Avs dont reaaly habe as much leverage as you might think…1 year left on RORs deal, and for 2hat he os doing so far this uear I think some might question wjat is he really worth on an extension….I wouldnt do JVR and Phaneuf both, ot could be argued JVR is the better forward, and is in a far better position contract wise. Phaneuf hold some salary to blaance out contracts and a prospect or a pick, would be about as far as I can see it going. RoR with 1 year left on his deal is not getting a top 4 D, and a top line winger with a great contract plus…keep him see what you get for a rental, have fun trying to get an extension signed. Thats a bad deal for the Leafs.
Dude…can you proofread your posts?
You always have the worst spelling mistakes, and sometime translating it is hard to do.
lol Ill try harder just for you gary..I will say tho George is right about this grey font on grey, its not the easiest thing to post on this site with hand held devices….Ill try and stick to the computer or tablet. Basically I was trying to say Leaf or not ROR is not worth a top 4 D plus a good top line winger with a sweet contract. Phaneufs contract if the Leafs were holding nearly 2 mill in salary is just not that bad. ROR is 6 mill with 1 year left…I am not sure people are understanding thats not great, you being a Flyer fan compare the centers deals….and O’Reilly isnt even playing center I am sure Sakic and Roy know a thing or 2 about good Defensive centers, maybe ROR isnt all he is made out to be either. He could be but its not a slam dunk of a deal that no matter who deals for him is getting a great 1 c, and he will still need a contract that starts at at least 6 mill long term.
And the part about the Avs having all this leverage…they are currently not in a playoff spot either, and if they hold on to ROR chances of them getting a better deal for him next year as a 6 million dollar rental if he is putting up the same kind of numbers is not great. I dont think there is much leverage there. I would not be giving up 5 million dollar top 4 D and 4.7 mill 60-70 point wingers for 1 year of potential. Never mind if I am the Leafs or not thats a bad deal.
Please trade both Schenns in a package deal for two prospects. Both are major disappointments and not worthy of any real return. Prosepcts and/or bags of pucks.