Latest on the Coyotes and Capitals, plus another list of potential destinations for Alexander Radulov.
Could the Coyotes pursue the first overall pick?
Could the Arizona Coyotes attempt to acquire the first-overall pick and select Auston Matthews?
THE GLOBE AND MAIL: Eric Duhatschek wonders if John Chayka, the Arizona Coyotes new general manager, might make a pitch to the Toronto Maple Leafs for the first-overall pick in the 2016 draft in order to select local boy and top prospect Auston Matthews. It “would probably start with their exceptional defenceman, Oliver Ekman-Larsson. A package might also have to include Max Domi, their excellent rookie, or Dylan Strome.”
SPORTSNET 590 (via TODAY’S SLAPSHOT): Chayka played coy when asked about the subject. “Auston is a special player, and for us he’d be a great player. But right now, we’re picking seventh, and I don’t expect him to be there at seven,” he said, declining to say if he’ll make an offer.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: A month ago, Coyotes CEO and president Anthony LeBlanc stated his club was not offering up Ekman-Larsson for the first overall pick, so we can eliminate that notion. I doubt very much that’s changed simply because Chayka is now the GM. I agree a package offer would have to include Domi or Strome, but that’s assuming the Leafs are willing to part with that pick. I wouldn’t be surprised if Chayka contacts the Leafs to gauge their asking price, but it will take a significant offer to pry that pick away. It’s also worth noting the last time the first-overall pick was traded was back in 2003. NHL GMs tend to hang onto the top pick nowadays.
Capitals.
SPORTSNET 590 (via TODAY’S SLAPSHOT): Elliotte Friedman reports he spoke with Washington Capitals GM Brian MacLellan following this season’s NHL trade deadline. MacLellan said his club has another season with its current group before salary-cap issues could forces changes, as forward Evgeny Kuznetsov and defenseman Karl Alzner will need new contracts. Should the Caps suffer another early playoff exit, Friedman speculates management will give it one more season with their current group.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: That’ll also depend upon ownership. After years of frustration, Capitals owner Ted Leonsis could order MacLellan to shake things up. Coming up short again in the playoffs could test his patience.
Radulov.
ESPN.COM: Matthew Coller recently listed the Detroit Red Wings, Florida Panthers, New York Rangers, Colorado Avalanche, New Jersey Devils, Anaheim Ducks and Montreal Canadiens as possible destinations for free-agent winger Alexander Radulov, who intends to return to the NHL after four seasons in the KHL.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: I recently weighed in with my thoughts on possible destinations for Radulov, who will likely be a second-tier talent in this summer’s UFA market. He could end up having to wait until after the first wave of signings are done before he gets a deal. If so, he could find decent offers hard to come by.
“NHL GMs tend to hang onto the top pick nowadays.” File that under “what if I trade it away and the consensus # 1 becomes a MAJOR star?” Hello Edmonton and the Yakupov pick where they SHOULD have been making a deal to shore up a weak D.
Well in Edmonton’s case as other teams the logic could also be to draft the consensus number 1 as the odds are they will be good NHL players than over time use those picks after determining the players value to shore up the holes in the roster. I had no issue with them taking Yakupov when they did. I had issues with them taking Hall over Seguin but even the Bruins passed on Seguin so something was up there but I would always go with the Centre over a winger. Yet now look at them they have an abundance and centre so what do I know. The option remains to trade one of these drafted guys alone or in a package for defensemen.
I see your a genius after the fact!
Jeff: Did they not speak of run-on sentences in high school. Your opening was 50 words, but who’s counting.Not a question.
Jeff: Did they not speak of run-on sentences in high school. Your opening was 50 words, but who’s counting. Not a question. Sorry, not me, guys.
George not even a deal, a lot of good defence in that draft and I just don’t mean #2 Murray. Trade down . ARZ should not gut the core with OEL, Domi, and then potentially Strome – no way.
Oh I agree totally. My initial comment was merely to suggest why GMs now tend to hang onto the 1st pick overall. BUT, there are occasions when a GM should bite the bullet and make a trade that would help their team in their weakest area. And the Yakupov year was one such – but MacTavish wasn’t up to the task.
Tambellini was GM when Yakupov was drafted so not sure what MacTavish had to do with it.
Haven’t you heard the stories George. Tambellini polled the scouts & they picked Murray. He told them to vote again. They did & picked Murray again. Tambellini choose Yakupov. Rumours say it was ownership interference. For me there is only 1 person to blame. Tambellini as he was GM although Kevin Lowe as President was as always driving the bus.
Lowe has locked up worst hockey management person of all time in the NHL. Not sure anyone else can ever duplicate his ineptitude.
Yeah, you’re right – actually Tweedle-Dum and Tweedle-Dummer. A distinction without a difference in the final analysis.
Hahahahah
Absolutely George. You & I could have done a better job than any of these 3 did. No way we could have made as many mistakes as Tambellini, Lowe or Mactavish. I don’t think anyone could.
Striker,
Makes you wonder how these guys get those high profile jobs and people like us would never stand a chance LOL
Chad, this site of GMs would have an all star franchise but we’d have to trade em all away to stupid leaf trolls
^ gave me a chuckle. There’s a winner and loser in every trade nowadays… Toronto fans are excited to have the 1st overall pick and they’ll be excited having Matthews in the lineup game 1 of the ’16-17 season.
The leafs will never trade the #1 pick, thats absolutely counter productive to all logic, objectives & tanking.
While everyone is looking for them to potentially trade down, I envision them trading up to land a defensive dman with that pitts pick + prospect/picks.
BTW OEL, morgan reilly subban karlsson are all way over rated
If you said ekblad then youd have a trade (maybe)
Sorry comment above was not for here
Anything more than oel and the rangers first is a rip off for ari. Strome straight up for Mathews is a fair deal… If Arizona had to throw in the rangers first to complete the deal then they probably would but that’s a deal defiantly skewed towards tor.
Oliver Ekman-Larsson is by himself an overpayment for the 1st overall and I’m surprised not more people realize or understand this… Franchise #1 elite level defenseman do not get moved unless for a ridiculous package and overpayment. I think the writer in this case has it backward. Toronto would ultimately have to overpay and include the #1 overall + to get Oliver Ekman-Larsson. Now, if they were to start a package including Strome, Coyotes 7th overall, and a defensive prospect or even Dahlbeck would be a more fair deal for both sides.
Rest assured I have said repeatedly that OEL isn’t moving for Toronto’s 1st overall. If teams even considered moving such assets it would cost more than just that pick.
Lets swing this the other way so these people that keep making these stupid & I mean really stupid suggestions understand how it sounds going the other way. Matthew’s Nylander & Pittsburgh’s 1st for OEL.
Striker,
My thoughts exactly sir!
The Mathews deal from Striker is a great equivalent to the strome + domi+ 2 first rounders being bandied about.
If I’m Arizona I still decline that deal. Not saying it isn’t fair but still not so lopsided enough for it to be a slam dunk for me but like the Subban discussion with Edm how does that make Arizona better. Losing OEL devastates that roster & he is irreplaceable. Arizona has Matthews. His name is Strome. That’s how high I value OEL.
Arizona currently has the best prospect pool in the NHL at least according to THN Future watch, why would they need another 1 especially at forward. They need to restock the D prospect cupboard & again at 7 they are in a perfect spot to do just that. It wouldn’t surprise me at all to see Arizona take 2 D with both 1st round picks.
Uh, u guys better watch this Matthews guy play before u start talking Strome straight up for Matthews, or a 7th or whatever, he is superstar material, OEL is awesome, no question but he is UFA in 3 yrs, what if he walks after that or won’t sign an extension? U gonna get a Matthews at the deadline that year? I wouldn’t take that chance, walk straight up to the podium and say Austin Matthews
Leaf wolf,
He may posses superstar material but at this point he’s as much of a guarantee in the NHL as Dylan Strome is… Each of their skill sets are very similar, Matthews does posses some slight advantages but the ability to excel at the NHL level is still unknown, for both players. The differences between a 1st overall to 3rd overall pick aren’t typically mind altering.
Also, I’m not sure what OEL and being an unrestricted free agent in 3 more seasons has to do with anything… unless you’re comparing the scenario of picking Matthews over a trade involving OEL and in that case I’d say the Maple Leafs and their fanbase would be ever so lucky to even be in that conversation to move the 1st overall for OEL… which is not likely going to happen except purely in speculation on sites similar to this one or by hockey writers who have nothing better to do than create unrealistic discussions. He will be a UFA in 3 seasons, but every superstar player in the NHL comes into a time where UFA is upon them and they resign or not… Matthews will be under Toronto control until he’s 27 or has put in 7 years of service, which will bring him to 26 (after 7 years of service), his birthday is in September and he’s 18 now… who says Matthews won’t bolt from Toronto for that matter? He certainly didn’t seem thrilled when they panned in live after the Leafs won the draft lottery… also, how many years will it take for Toronto to once again be relevant or in the playoff, or even cup contention talk? He could easily jump ship the moment he’s awarded the opportunity. Now I don’t think Toronto will move the pick anyways, but for different reasons… they won’t be able to sell the fanbase on the return unless it’s some ridiculous overpayment of sorts, which is entirely unrealistic and won’t happen. Also, I’m not a fan of either franchise… just a plain ole hockey fan, professional, college, juniors, ect. My favorite team is the Bruins so there really isn’t a bias and honestly I enjoy the Leafs being competitive as it makes for more meaningful games between the Leafs and B’s.
Dougie Hamilton
Auston Matthews makes so much sense for the Coyotes marketing. If a deal is made they will overpay. Best position the Leafs have been sitting in for a long time.
Austin Mathews looked pretty ordinary playing against NHLers in that opening game against Canada at the World’s. A lot of attention will be on him as that tournament proceeds.
George O.
I completely agree with you… I watched the entire game and although I agree with some people who said he came around at different points and made plays, nothing wowed me by any means. If I had not known who Auston Matthews was during that game I would have had no idea that a #1 pick was on the ice or game changing talent. Laine had a much better game for Team Finland but in all fairness it was 2 completely different opponents and line mates (talent wise)… but still I thought Laine played a much better game even against a lesser opponent.
The difference is, Mathews is a C while Laine plays the wing, and it’s no secret that finding a top C is like finding a gold vein in an onion patch. To this day I think Edmonton screwed up by not taking Seguin over Hall who were ranked 1/2 – 2/1 take your pick – BUT landing a potential franchise C was more in Edmonton’s long-term interests at that time, given the state of their franchise.
In this case, GMs and scouts will have their eyes glued to Mathews in every game and will, make no mistake, gauge his NHL potential based more upon his performance against NHL-calibre players rather than cannon fodder like Belarus. It will be interesting to see how he does overall.
George O.
You’re certainly not wrong in that finding a true top center is difficult when compared to a scoring winger. I agree that the IIHF is going to be heavily watched, especially with a focus on Matthews. He played the the ’15-16 season in the NLA, before that he played in the USDP and USHL… thrown around in there were the world juniors, which he did play well in both at U18 and U20. I think this is a great opportunity for him to play against some high end talent. It’ll be interesting to see if he excels.
Yes we are talking about a guy who’s been 18 yrs old for over 6 months now playing along/against (in the case with team Canada) very good seasoned NHL players most of whom are the better players. I think people need to get a grip on reality…I mean I haven’t watched any Edmonton games but I’m pretty sure mcdavid wasn’t the oils #1 center this season so I don’t get the over evaluation of Matthews of somehow being more than what he is…a young talented player who has potential to be a #1 guy, not YET #1 or anything close to it. And no, there will be no trading that pick.
Don’t compare Mathews to McDavid. The latter missed 37 games due to that broken collar-bone and still wound up with 16g 32a and 48 pts in 45 games and is a main reason why he’s still a finalist for the Calder. He IS a generational player. Not yet sold on Mathews.
^ agreed… I’m not entirely sold on the player either. If he is as talented as people have said he is, and compared him to… I expect to see some wow factors regardless of him playing against men or seasoned NHL vets. The players that are of that elite status hold the edge and are the reason they are drafted 1st overall… because they’re ready to be in the NHL now. I want to see it during the IIHF
Funny thing is McDavid was touted as a generational player when draft and people were not sold on him until he played. They thought he’d be good but generational? Now Matthews is up and Toronto fans expect other teams to be sold on this solid prospect. Yakupov was solid to. So was Daigel….stupid Daigel arg. The Night mares won’t go away. haha I kid all
Jeff Noel,
You bring up a good point… and I’m quite certain most if not all drafts in last decade or so has had the so called “generational talent”, “franchise altering”, “ahead of his time”, etc. ect. ect. player who goes #1 overall when you look at what the hockey analysts writeup about the player prior to being drafted. This is Auston Matthews current writeup courtesy of eliteprospects.com
” A high octane dynamo that thrives under the microscope, Auston Matthews is a complete offensive forward who consistently boasts quick hands, feet, and thinking at both ends of the ice. Naturally nimble skater that accelerates to top speed very quickly. An unwavering focus on fine tuning elements of his own game facilitates confidence and competence in his young, but mature, mind. Prolific goal scoring ability and doesn’t wait for opportunities to show themselves. He makes his own luck, so to speak, maximizing the use of his body and stick to gain leverage against the toughest of opponents. All-in-all, a generational talent that has the potential to develop into a top flight franchise center. (Curtis Joe, EP 2016) “
CHAD
HE SOUNDS AWESOME NOW.
Right! By that writeup it sounds like Toronto should be asking for 5 years worth of 1st round draft picks, and the organization’s top 3 players currently on the roster lol
WHO never touted McDavid as a generational player? Some fans whose teams had no chance at picking him? Someone ticked off that Edmonton got the first pick again? I can’t conceive of any serious professional pundit having second thoughts about his future in the NHL as a bona-fide star. Just didn’t happen.
What I mean George is some were sayi he’d get 80 points, some 60 points. A very few though a point per game and 60 point player is not in the generational category. Yes everyone thought he’d be good it was how good.
His linemates are garbage and his first game against NHL talent was against an Allstar team. He was still the best player on his team. He also matched Laine in performance against Belarus.
Irritatedbeaver,
Auston Matthews according to the IIHF starting lineup for today’s game had him paired with Schroeder (1st round pick) and Vatrano (led the AHL in goals scored with 36 in 36 games played). He was also paired with Patrick Maroon in the game against Canada… Maroon is no pushover and certainly isn’t garbage. Maroon has statically been a force throughout his career, he’s not an elite superstar but he posses a lot of talent.
Patrik Laine was paired with Jussi Jokinen and Aleksander Barkov. Jokinen has been around for a while and is 33… certainly not the same player he once was and while I would agree Barkov is a high end talent to play alongside Laine… I definitely wouldn’t say Matthews is paired with garbage. He faced a much more talented roster with Canada and couldn’t make much happen, I wouldn’t blame his line mates for that. Lets see how Laine does against Canada. Matthews did show something today against a much worse Belarus team.
McDavid was called a generational can’t miss by everyone I can think of that I have even the slightest respect for.
The marketing might drive up the price slightly but not to the ludicrous levels some of the rumors have going. Domi, strome and ari’s first? way to much for mathews. OEL and a first (rangers first would be fair, but as you say with the hometown thing it would probably have to be ari’s first.) is more than fair. A true number one d-man is worth as much or more than a true number 1 center unless that center is on level with mcdavid or crosby. OEL is worth more than a stamkos, a getzlof, a eichel, etc. Overall it makes no sense for leafs to trade pick as they wont get the value they think they should and picking mathews would be good for them as well.
I used to think Matthews would sell tickets in Phoenix but winning would sell even more. The Yotes have some great young forwards in their system but only one top defenseman in OEL. Trading away OEL or any combination of their young guys for Matthews would create significant holes in their roster which would weaken the on-ice product. Stay the course and grab a good player at 7th and winning will sell tickets.
A bunch of PR BS. It makes for a heart warming story but what is the marketing benefit? I would suggest you go back & look at what generational players drafted have done for their markets in ticket sales. Matthew’s isn’t a generational talent. He’s the 2nd best player available in his draft year. I have Laine #1. That puts him potentially on par with the MacKinnon’s, RNH’s, Yakupov’s, Hall’s of the world.
1st & foremost winning sells tickets, followed by an entertaining brand of hockey. Most people in or around Glendale have never heard of hockey nor care who Austin Matthew’s is & Pheonix is the 6th largest city in America, by metropolitan area 14th, by TV market 18th.
how did Yakupov make the list with the rest of those guys…
For no reason but being selected 1st overall. Not all picks pan out. What if Matthews doesn’t become the player many expect him to be? I can hear they Toronto addicts now.
Why the hell did Toronto select Matthews when they could have selected Laine, Nylander, etc. How soon they forget that they had him worth OEL, Strome, Domi & both Arz’s 1st round picks.
As a Leaf fan I hope Leaf management does NOT trade the 1st overall pick. If they do they should make Arizona do a HUGE overpayment (no other team would).
I truly doubt that we could get OEL, but Strome at least has the potential to become a #1 center so he would be a must include.
So Arizona trades:
D Strome
C Dvorak or M Domi
Their 7h overall pick
The Rangers 1st rd pick
Leafs trade:
1st overall pick
J Lupol
Apt name. Sums up the post.
Can we please stop making these ludicrous proposals. Put down the crack pipe. You live in a fantasy land. Strome is Matthews, better in my opinion. If I felt a true marketing opportunity existed for Matthews & it doesn’t, I might pay Strome & a 2nd. I like Strome better & Laine for that matter, so if I were inclined to trade up I might offer up a player like Dvorak & my 7th for Winnipeg’s 2nd.
I’m going to bow out of this discussion moving forward as it’s a complete waste of time.
Striker,
I still feel D. Strome, 7th overall, and one more piece such as a prospect (not named Domi or Dvorak) or another pick is a suitable package. Unfortunately for many of the hockey writers who favor the Toronto Maple Leafs and hopeful fans, this is simply a slap in the face to them as the 1st overall is worth an entire roster of players.
chad… thats still a massive overpayment.
Strome, Arz’s 2nd & a B grade prospect like a MacInnis or Letunov would be the highest price I would be willing to pay for the opportunity to draft Matthews if I truly felt the marketing opportunity justified it, but I don’t, so I wouldn’t & if picking 1st again I take Laine.
Although I certainly understand why Toronto would potentially select Matthews over him. They don’t have that asset in the system today, a big future #1 C but if they sign Stamkos they do & if I did then I would draft Laine.
That said unless Toronto trades for Stamkos`s rights the draft happens before the July 1st UFA market opens so unless they are absolutely positive Stamkos is signing they are better served to select Matthews. The team need for me slightly out weighs who I feel is the better player & really just nominally better.
chrisms,
I think that package is a lot closer to what it would actually take/ fair or realistic value when comparing to some of the trade scenarios we’ve been presented with or read about online. It would take Strome and the 2016 Arizona first round pick to get it done… Adding the kicker if need be as a make or break it. Even just a 2nd round maybe not the NYR 1st… But still much more realistic to what is fair for both sides
Strome is way to much to pay to move up 6 spots in the draft. He was an equal chance of being a the better player in the deal. Strome + another decent asset (rangers 1st, or a decent prospect) is an overpayment but maybe the whole hometown thing rings true for Arizona and they would be willing to overpay a bit for the marketing stuff.
chrisms,
Moving up spots, especially in the top 10 requires a lot. I honestly don’t think Strome plus the Arizona 1st is an overpayment. I think anything involving OEL is an overpayment… Or Domi and Strome plus the first… But Strome or Dvorak plus the Arizona first is fair value. Bruins tried moving multiple first round picks last draft just to move closer or around the 8-10 spot and couldn’t even do that. I think it takes a lot to move even a couple spots let alone 6 spots to the first overall
chad your post below about the picks negates your argument about the value to move up or trade for 1st overall.
Striker you’re delusional
chrisms,
I don’t think it negates the argument around the value for moving up in the draft. Those picks ( I believe you’re referring to the prior 1st overall picks moved) were executed 13 years ago. In all likelihood, the value to move up in the draft back in 2003 is much different than it is today. All I was providing was the breakdown and package of the most recent 1st overall picks moved. Also, keep in mind all of the 4 examples included swapping the 1st overall for a pick that was still 2nd or 3rd overall. Including Dylan Strome and the Arizona 7th overall doesn’t negate those examples in arguing that it takes a lot to move up in the draft… those 1st overall picks were essentially swapped around to 2nd or 3rd overall and still included assets in doing so. In this case you’re talking about moving from the 7th overall (which, will likely mean you miss out on Matthews, Laine, Puljujarvi, Tkachuk, Dubois, and Nylander). Now there is the projected top end defenseman available at Arizona’s pick but the talent level of some of those players I just mentioned are not available. It’s going to take Strome, + 7th overall, and maybe another asset to make it happen. If Arizona had the 2nd or 3rd overall I would argue that the package would look entirely different…
Hopefully the rambling I just provided makes sense, but I don’t think the examples below negate the argument for what it takes to move up in the draft. From 7th overall to 1st takes much more than 2nd or 3rd to 1st… just like it takes more than what the Bruins offered last draft to move from the teens to the top 10… more than multiple 1st round picks in the same draft. Some reported they offered all 3 picks and were turned down by multiple teams.
Would’t be the 1st time I was called delusional. I don’t even want to have this stupid disussion.
All I said is what I would be willing to pay if I was in charge of Arizona.
To be honest i’m not paying anything. Arz has the best prospect pool in the NHL. They don’t need Matthews. It makes for a heart felt story but no other advantage.
It won’t be a fair deal. Arizona is not in a position to get fair value. They know that if a local boy is on the ice it will sell more tickets. If the leafs trade that pick, they should get some of the elite prospects/players mentioned (OEL, Strome, Domi, Dvorak) and the 7th. The only way Toronto trades this pick is if someone wants to overpay.
It “would probably start with their exceptional defenceman, Oliver Ekman-Larsson. A package might also have to include Max Domi, their excellent rookie, or Dylan Strome.”
Hey Eric Duhatschek, I may not be a hockey writer but even I could think up some more realistic trade scenarios than that… Oliver Ekman-Larsson alone is an overpayment for the 1st overall. He’s a #1 franchise defenseman, he’s only 24 years old and progressively getting stronger and better as the seasons past. With the amount of defenseman teams take and don’t pan out… obtaining one that’s already performing as an elite defenseman with ceiling to grow doesn’t typically happen. Especially for a forward. So I completely 100% disagree with this idea that it would take a “package” involving OEL and one of Domi or Strome… not a chance… but then again what do we expect from a Canadian hockey writer who tends to lean in favor of the Maple Leafs in his write-ups.
It’s called “wishful thinking” and many of them have been inflicted with that malady for over a decade now.
“Malady” <- nice word choice
As much as I enjoy reading wishful thinking, pipe dream scenarios… it just becomes ridiculous after a while when you see trade scenarios thought up that are not even realistic to the fair-weather NHL fan, let alone these writers do this for a living… it's almost done in a "troll" or "baiting" like manner in order to get people to click and respond. At least Lyle is on earth and not on another planet like some of those writers are… SPECTOR'S NOTE: "I agree a package offer would have to include Domi or Strome" add in the 7th overall, another prospect or high pick and that's realistic.
The problem with comparisons is u end up putting down some good young players , Strome is going to be a darn good player, size, skill etc but his skating isn’t even in the same league as Matthews, neither is his shot, skill level or hockey sense, I live in an OHL city, I have seen Strome several times live and on the OHL pack, he can play on my team anytime but he just doesn’t have the talent level , hockey sense and skating as Matthews. Not now, tommorrow or ever.
Arizona is pretty thin on defensive prospects, a franchise defenceman like OEL shouldn’t be traded for anybody.
I’ve said it before, I think Strome and NY’s first is fair for Mathews, but I’m starting to get the feeling Toronto fans would riot in the streets. Keeping Mathews is the safe bet for Lou, fans would be happy, media would be happy, and there wouldn’t be an overwhelming amount of scrutiny on this team (see Kessel deal)
Personally I’d rather have Strome due to his ties with Marner and the fact that he’s a local kid who has as much potential as Mathews, but I fear what will happen in this market if that trade goes down.
Durtmchurtt,
First of all I think hopefully Toronto fans have a less than 5% chance the 1st overall pick is moved. So all of this is purely speculation between the fans and hockey writers but you brought up a good point and that is the safe bet is Lou keeping and making the pick taking Matthews 1st overall. I’m becoming more and more on board with that because I feel for Toronto fans, anything less than an unrealistic package for the 1st overall pick is less than satisfactory, and people would ultimately criticize the organization. Whereas, they keep the pick, make the choice, and Matthews becomes a top line center for the team. I feel even the management knows behind locked doors what the pick is REALLY worth, and what a realistic package would look like… I just don’t think they can sell the fan base on it.
I do think Strome and the NYR 1st for Matthews is light though… more along the lines of Strome, Coyotes 1st (7th overall), + another pick or prospect, maybe they do toss in the NYR pick also. So it looks like D. Strome, 7th overall, and the 18th overall. Toronto gets Strome who should workout nicely as a top end center, 7th overall will allow them to take the top defenseman in the draft, and the 18th looks like there will be some promising young wingers available.
hopeful***
Personally, I’d do that deal all day if I’m Lou. I’d probably expect to pick Nylander at 7, and use NY’s 1st to trade up and pick Fabro (offensive right shot defenceman). Either way that does a lot of good for Toronto, but again, I see mass rioting in the streets and endless media scrutiny. I think you’re right giving it a 5% chance of happening.
I think it helps out Toronto big time, fills in elite players in areas they need… instead of drafting a single player who’s a center. Nylander, Strome, and Fabbro, but as you said and I mentioned as well, Toronto fans would not be content with that. The Maple Leafs organization might be and see that as a good trade, tough sell on the fanbase though. I’m sure if I were in that situation (Maple Leaf fan) I would probably be angry as well. When the Bruins had the 2nd overall and were going to take Seguin or Hall (whichever fell to them)… I was reading a lot about speculation/rumors on moving the pick and was overly disappointed. In hindsight now with that the Bruins have leftover from the Toronto trade, and subsequent Seguin pick and then trade… still upset over it all.
It is telling you don’t tell us what Arizona gets out of the package. Just Toronto. Think of the deal from Arizona’s perspective.
Jeff Noel,
I’m not a fan of either team… I just think a package for the 1st overall pick, which would be considered fair value would include a top end prospect (Strome), a 1st round pick (which, is usually the team who’s trading pick in that current draft, example the 1st for the 7th overall), and a kicker piece (if needed). I don’t think it’s telling that I’m not including the fact Arizona gets the 1st overall pick at all. They get Matthews who in all likelihood will be better than Strome… how much can probably be debated, as many such as Striker feel they’re both comparable. It comes down to how much Arizona wants the player… honestly I don’t think it’ll happen anyways as I said, less than 5% chance it’s moved. Also, I mentioned above that moving up in the draft costs a lot in terms of assets, even a couple of draft positions sees to require a bit of an overpayment.
If Arizona wants Matthews that bad, they will over pay because the Leafs DO NOT have to make the deal.
Yankee Fan,
I don’t think Arizona wants Matthews that bad… everything is purely speculation at this point. Neither team needs to make a trade for that matter. As much as the Leafs DO NOT need to make a deal, neither does Arizona. Everything is centered around WHAT IF, Toronto decides the pick is available… in that case Arizona would likely need to part with Strome, 7th overall, and potentially another kicker piece (not named Domi or Dvorak) <- That's my speculation, not speaking for others such as Striker who feels the package would look different. The pick isn't getting moved but regardless, it's fun talking about the possibilities and seeing the variations in what people feel a package would need to be… except when the conversations become unrealistic such as OEL + for the 1st overall such as what was mentioned by the hockey writer Eric Duhatschek
I agree Chad. It be over payment like the package you suggest.
No team will be more happy than Winnipeg as they will get the best player in Laine.
Arizona’s in a perfect draft spot for their needs. They are loaded with young forward prospects both in the NHL now & coming. They have a solid young D core playing in the NHL now in OEL, Stone, Murphy. Some possibles in Dahlbeck, Tinordi & Samuelsson but are in serious need of some A grade D prospects. At #7 they will have their choice of the 3 best available in this draft & all start coming into play right around 7.
Even if Laine is the best or they Toronto takes Laine over Mathews and Winnipeg gets Matthews. Winnipeg can make their selection with little fear of making a mistake.
Very few teams blow a top 5 pick today. I assume it`s because scouting & data to help identify players has improved so significantly & is less based just on the eye test.
After Lyle mentioned the last 1st overall traded was in 2003… I went back to review the trades and these are them broken down in simple form, viewed from grantland.com, they have the entire history of 1st overall moved, scenario, packages, ect.
– 2003 – 1st overall taken Marc-Andre Fleury
Panthers trade 1st overall, 3rd round pick to the Penguins for the 3rd overall, 2nd round pick, and Mikael Samuelsson
– 2002 – 1st overall taken Rick Nash
Panthers trade 1st overall to the Blue Jackets for the 3rd overall, and the right to swap picks in 2003
– 1999 – Patrik Stefan
Canucks trade Bryan McCabe, future 1st round pick (11th overall) to the Blackhawks for the 4th overall. The Canucks then sent the 4th overall and two 3rd round picks to the Lightning for the 1st overall. The Canucks then turn around and send the 1st overall to the Thrashers for the 2nd and a 3rd round pick.
– 1998 – Vincent Lecavalier
Sharks trade Viktor Kozlov, 5th round pick for the Panthers 1st round pick (ends up being #1) and Dave Lowry. Sharks later in the season move Andrei Nazarov and right to flip 1st round picks with the Lightning (from 1st overall to 2nd overall), and Bryan Marchment and David Shaw.
One thing to remember with the MAF trade was that Florida was settled in net and didnt want a goalie… they wanted Horton. The deal was contingent on a verbal understanding with the canes they would select eric staal and leave horton to be picked at three. The Panthers still got the guy they had wanted at number three and got additional assets… it was a win win.
chrisms,
That is a good point, Luongo was the Panthers goalie at the time… they didn’t need Marc-Andre Fleury but Pittsburgh was also desperate and reached. To this day I still don’t understand the reasoning behind that because other players such as Staal should really have gone before Fleury.
Wherever Radulov winds up (and it will be where the GM over-pays) the fans there will be exposed to a complete flake and his new teammates will be ready to throttle him by the 1/3 mark of the season. I wouldn’t touch him with the proverbial 10-foot pole.
Just another Russian player drafted (1st round also), plays a bit in NHL, heads overseas, wants to come back and play in the NHL, plays, heads back overseas again, and now wants to return.
Bruins are going to lose Alexander Khokolachev this off season unless he’s traded or has a change of heart, as he’s heading back to Russia to play.
We talked about this some what a well back when addressing him. He had waver rights & for whatever reason the Bruin’s have just never given him a chance. Interestingly enough he’s the last asset remaining from the Thornton trade.
Striker,
Bruins have only given him 9 games, which honestly isn’t a good sample size because the games have been spread out over 3 seasons. Not exactly fair for the player but also, in those 9 games he has done absolutely NOTHING besides hurt his team with a -9 and no points, not even a lonely assist. Although, I am slightly disappointed the Bruins didn’t move the player earlier… hopefully they can package him or trade him for something if anything before he flees for Russia.
This is what the 2011 Bruins draft looks like as of now
1st round 9th overall – Dougie Hamilton (Traded to Calgary for 2015 first, and 2 second round picks
2nd round 40th overall – Alexander Khokolachev (Leaving Bruins to go to Russia 2016 off season)
3rd round 81st overall – Anthony Camara (Traded at most recent deadline part of package for John-Michael Liles
4th round 121st overall – Brian Ferlin (still with the Bruins organization, played 7 games with big club, 1 assist / played 1 season with AHL Bruins 53 games, 11 goals 9 assists and a -9)
5th round 151st overall (Rob O’Gara, Yale prospect… Bruins recently signed to ELC this year)
6th round 181st overall (Lars Volden, goaltender playing overseas)
Chad.
9 games playing as a 4th line checker is not an opportunity. In his 5 games played this season he averaged 10:15 TOI GP with ZERO PP time.
He has been given no chance & I cant blame him for bolting. He has scored at every level hes played at from Jr to the WJC to the AHL & never been deployed in an offensive roll ever. An opportunity would be as a 3rd line LW with some 2nd line PP time for 25 to 40 games.
Its to bad as it seems like a waste of an asset. Obviously there is a fundamental flaw in his game of some nature.
Striker,
Completely agree about his opportunity or lack thereof, I said so in my comment. I don’t think it’s fair to the player but also there must be something that the Bruins don’t see or see that’s off putting for them not to give the player more of a chance.
Agreed
Everyone keeps throwing Arizona trading Ny’s 1st.
Has Ny even stated on whether or not they have deferred the pick to 2017?
It can’t be deferred to 2017
“a 2016 conditional 1st (if the Rangers miss the playoffs in ’16 the pick slides to 2017” and it’s lottery protected for 2016. The pick isn’t in the lottery and the Rangers made the playoffs. Arizona is getting this pick in 2016. 18th overall
Actually it can……………..”Traded • Keith Yandle • Chris Summers • 2016 fourth round pick to Rangers for • John Moore • Anthony Duclair • 2015 second round pick (#60-Oliver Kylington) • 2016 first round pick (lottery protected in 2016, unprotected in 2017)”……………
The only difference is 2016 was lottery protected and 2017 it is not. But they can still defer it until 2017.
It has been discussed in NY media many times “will they defer or not”. And as far as I know, they haven’t made that decision as of today.
It had nothing to do with making the playoffs or not, it was NY’s decision either way.
… It’s lottery protected in 2016 meaning if the Rangers miss the playoffs it would be considered in the lottery thus protected and the Rangers CAN DECIDE to slide it to 2017. Otherwise the pick is in 2016. The Rangers thus have no option to move it to 2017 because as I mentioned they made the playoffs and the pick wasn’t placed in the lottery (picks 1-14). It’s explained all over the Internet, even on Rangers driven sites. Also, when the trade happens Dreger and TSN broke down the explanation of Lottery Protected. This site will also break it down.
http://www.generalfanager.com/teams/new-york-rangers
That’s a list of contracts?
And they were well on their way to a presidents trophy when they made that deal? Making the playoffs wasn’t going to be an issue.
Nyr4life,
It’s on the lefthand side, column… scroll down to list of picks traded. Let me know when you find it
The entire point of the 1st round pick and subsequent lottery protection on it was that the pick was always going to be a 2016 pick unless for some crazy reason the Rangers failed to make the playoffs, which in that case would’ve landed the pick in the lottery……….. which, gives the Rangers the choice to slide it to 2017. If the Rangers made the playoffs (which they did), then the pick is for 2016. The pros and cons of this for both sides is that……… if the the Rangers didn’t make the playoffs this season (rare chance) then they get their lottery pick (1-14) whatever it ends up being, good for the Rangers, but it moves to 2017 where its not protected and gives the Coyotes a chance to have a pick in the lottery. But who are we all kidding, would the Rangers really miss the playoffs 2 years in a row with a payroll that supports a stanley cup contender? The Rangers 1st round pick this year is Arizona’s, it’s not sliding to 2017… the Rangers don’t have the ability to choose… the choice is left up to the team finishing in the playoffs or outside of the playoffs. They make the playoffs, 2016, they miss then they choose to slide it to 2017.
The New York Rangers’ first-round pick will go to the Arizona Coyotes as the result of a trade on March 1, 2015 that sent Keith Yandle, Chris Summers and a fourth-round pick in 2016 to New York in exchange for John Moore, Anthony Duclair, Tampa Bay’s second-round pick in 2015 and this pick (being conditional at the time of the trade).[9] The condition – Arizona will receive a first-round pick in 2016 if New York qualifies for the 2016 Stanley Cup playoffs[10] – was converted on April 4, 2016.
The above is per 2016 NHL Entry Draft From Wikipedia
That article by Sean Mcindoe is an interesting read. Let’s not over-think this. Keep the pick, draft Matthews. Done.
Best option for Toronto and their fan base. If they move the pick the fanbase will ultimately be disappointed with the return. Keep the pick, draft the kid.
I think it is hilarious that people (Toronto fans) think a “Stats Guy” who is no in charge of Arizona will trade multiple players for one unproven talent. I mean when Toronto hired their “stats guy” the same people (Toronto fans) were all cheering for moving out guys to bring in multiple assets, Players and picks. They even suggested trading higher picks for multiple lower picks and cheered it when it happened. Now people (The Toronto fans) you need to square this circle or circle the square or whatever the saying goes and guide me through your logic where you think one statistician will throw away the plan that statistician’s have been promoting for some time now just because said statistician is the GM of team not named Toronto.” It won’t happen. It is not in Chayka’s character to move one asset for multiple ones.
Especially one player who blows a the stats out of the water in OEL combined with additional assets for 1 draft pick which ultimately using statistics could be calculated to have a viable percentage chance of busting.
^ yeah exactly what I was thinking. Oliver Ekman-Larsson has been an absolute beast, just if you’re looking at statistics. No way he’s moved for #1… that would be horrible value for Arizona
I will keep making the same request I have made at least 1/2 a dozen times now & only had 1 response to date to. What # 1 D Man has any team traded ever, lets say the last 20 years, where their weren’t extenuating circumstances.
To date we have addressed 3. Bouwmeester, Phaneuf & Pronger & none qualify as all moved for extenuating circumstances or were’t their respective teams # 1 when moved.
No 1 has thrown out any other examples & the reason is simple it just doesn’t happen. Now players like a Chara or a Phaneuf soft # 1’s on the downside of their careers may be moved & Phaneuf was moved & was Toronto’s # 1 but I think we all can say he was moved due to extenuating circumstances. His contract was onerous to Toronto’s rebuild. Now in Ottawa he is no longer a #1 but #2.
Striker,
Hat tip to you… aside from those 3 there really hasn’t been top defenseman (#1, top pairing) moved. I was focusing a lot of my argument around the fact that the 1st overall pick is rarely ever moved… add that to the fact #1 defenseman aren’t either and we have our answer as to what will happen.
Ray?
Hahahaha.
You obviously didn’t read the qualifications about extenuating circumstances or the downside of their careers but you have been the only 1 that has at least tried now on 2 occasions.
Ironically you have chosen my favorite player of all time. I am 53 & a Bruins fan after all.
Ray Bourque was 39 years old when Boston traded him to Colorado he turned 40; born in Dec, when he won the cup the next season with Colorado & retired.
Swing & a miss but a nice try. Hahahahah. Next!
We cant think of 1, nor can anyone else as it just doesn’t happen, so can we please stop dreaming about it happening. I am not saying its never going to happen, just that it is so rare that to be throwing out these insane offers for Subban, OEL, etc is a waste of everyone’s time as it is not happening.
What was the other? And ray was said with a bit of wink
I assumed as much. Broke my heart watching him leave but happy he got a chance to win the cup.
I thought you were the 1 that threw out Pronger?
Last 20 yrs yah, but Paul Coffey was traded , It could have been for financial reasons as we learn later Pocklington was hurting, that’s why he traded Gretzky. With the cap lotsa teams will make deals for financial reasons. Also way back 1954 Norris winner Red Kelly was traded in 1960 to Toronto at 32 yrs old, was such a great skater Imlach made him a centre cause they were short there. Doesn’t happen very often but it does and sometimes for different reasons.
I think most people are over valuing what it means for Arizona to land a home town boy. It is a transient area, and most of the homegrown folks of Arizona know 2 names in hockey for the most part. And one of them is still Gretzky.
Exactly NYR4LIFE.
Now break down the metropolitan area by racial demographics. The MSA has a population of 4.7 million people of which 58.7% is white non hispanic, the remainder other.
Now by age as it’s the 2nd largest retirement area in North America & by far it’s largest demographic. Do you see allot of blue haired people at hockey games?
What marketing opportunity. Like people NYR4LIFE said most only know 1 hockey player & his name is Gretzky & of most of those they still assume he’s playing. Hahahahahah
I have a friend that goes to some Arizona games and he says it’s more a country club setting, many go to the game have dinner and then leave rarely staying for the whole game. If that’s the case I agree with what was said here that winning will sell tickets maybe more then trading for Matthews.
Lots of funny comments today. It seems there is a lot of leaf bashers out here. For what ever reason since TO got the first pick Matthew isn’t as good as people think, he isn’t worth this or that. Yet if he was drafted last year, popular belief is he would have went 3rd some had him going second, no one had him going 1st or 4th. So no Toronto isn’t giving this pick up for OEL or anyone else, he is the type of player (C) that you build your franchise around. If your Toronto and you believe he is the hpye, then why would you move a franchise center that your trying to build your rebuilding team around. You don’t win without a number one center.
Caper,
C’mon now, I don’t think there are many Leaf bashers on here today LOL! I think the majority of NHL fans who comment on here are sick of seeing the unrealistic trade scenarios… most of which involve Oliver Ekman-Larsson. Matthews is going to be a great player but I think it’s fair for people to have their doubts, or uncertainty… I know I do. I typically always have doubts regarding the top 1-3 picks anyways, it’s tough to gauge a players success in the NHL when all they have done is played at junior, ncaa, or overseas. The talent level in the NHL is so much of level above anything else, even the AHL for that matter. How many times have we all seen players in the AHL (basically professional level, above juniors, ect.) outperform their peers but then come into the NHL and are but a shadow of themselves.
I do agree with you that if he was drafted last year would’ve been between 2nd-3rd overall… I feel 3rd is more appropriate as I don’t think he is on the Eichel level. He may grow into that eventually though but as of the draft he wasn’t on his level of talent. I also agree that Toronto isn’t giving up the pick for OEL…. but because Arizona would never in their right mind give up a franchise #1 proven defenseman of Oliver Ekman-Larsson’s caliber for Auston Matthews. Centers are definitely worth a lot in the NHL, I don’t disagree with you regarding that and building around them but you know what’s tougher to find and develop, and usually takes longer than forwards…….. ? Defenseman. You don’t trade Oliver Ekman-Larsson for Auston Matthews, not in a 100 years, Arizona would ultimately lose that trade the hour it was official.
“You don’t win without a number one center”
Absolutely agree, but you can’t win with offense alone. Take the Bruins for example, actually a great example. They have 2 of the better centers in the entire league in Bergeron and Krejci… arguably at least the 3rd best in the league in Bergeron and Krejci I’d place somewhere in the top 15… they were 5th best in goals for… yet their defense was horrendous. You build your team around the defense IMO. Do you know how many centers scored more than 50 points last season… 41 Bergeron was 9th and Krejci was 14th… defenseman matter more than centers and are tougher to find and develop.
The leafs will never trade the #1 pick, thats absolutely counter productive to all logic, objectives & tanking.
While everyone is looking for Leafs to potentially trade down, I envision them trading up to land a defensive dman with that pitts pick + prospect/picks.
BTW OEL, morgan reilly subban karlsson are all way over rated
If you said ekblad then youd have a trade (maybe)
Matthews will win 2 cups…kreskin told me
assbackwards,
The 1st overall pick, or lets just call it Auston Matthews for a top end #1 pairing defenseman isn’t realistic. The pick isn’t worth that. Defenseman are always worth more than forwards, especially those defenseman that lead the league and are considered elite. Most of the names you mentioned are just that, elite, top pairing.
How far do you see the Leafs trading up from the Pittsburgh pick to grab one of those highly touted defenseman?
I understand a dman is better logic, but that is also under the understanding that a dman plays defense, which thoseplayers above all do, but elite shutdown they are not. OLE maybe when hes 28 & on a good team.
5 spots max to pick Stanley & Neimelaine both monsters
im not talking jollevi and the russian… im talking someone that will take your head off or takes up 20 feet of ice with his stick
I think Goalie will be in later rounds & a trade depeding on bernier
Boudreau to Minny as assumed. Sorry George. I would have loved to see him land in Ottawa as well but the reason I sad Minny was if I had to choose between Ottawa, Minny & Calgary i’d have choosen Minny.
Best team of the 3 on papaer & still several solid prospects coming. They have under produced 2 years in a row.
Boudreau will look like a genius making that group click by January of next season.
Agreed. Best choice of the 3 given teams. Early reports say that Minnesota also increased the financials of the deal in the last 24-48 hours. Doesn’t look like Ottawa matched.
OEL + Strome or Domi for Matthews? Ya right… Matthews is good but he’s no generational talent.