The trade of Kasperi Kapanen to the Penguins leaves the Maple Leafs with some options. The departures of Kyle Clifford and Tyson Barrie gives you an additional $3.5 million. At $3.2 million, Kapanen gives the Maple Leafs a total of $6.7 million to play with. Previously, I listed possible additions on the defence side.
Now we have to look at how to fit everything together. The Maple Leafs can use that money to grab a defenceman or make another trade. Keep in mind we will have to replace Clifford with another fourth-liner.
What will we get for Nylander if we go through the trade route? Nylander is coming off of a 30-goal season. Those don't grow on trees. Nylander is being used in all aspects of the game: He has a deadly shot on the powerplay. His speed makes him dangerous in the 5-on-5, allowing him to get around opposing defenders. There should be plenty of teams knocking at the door, especially with Nylander's on contract for another four years.
Nylander should get us a top-of-the-line second-pairing defenceman. Or maybe even a lower-echelon top-pairing defenseman. There are rumours that the Oilers might part with Oscar Klefbom. Perhaps a deal could be worked out centering around him. If the Leafs use this option, the remaining money could buy a cheaper version of Nylander through free agency. Either way, the Maples Leafs have more options with the shrewd deal made by Dubas. A general manager should get his props for the good as well as getting smacked for the bad.
Randy
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