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This gives the Leafs the ability to deploy 3 sets of evenly LHD/RHD pairs that can each play 20 min each. Ideally, it would be nice if the Leafs had a guy like Seth Jones (Leafs were too stupid to acquire him) or some other minute munching top pair D. But unfortunately, those guys are A) not available and B) not within the budget.
However, they could grab Aaron Ekblad as a UFA. If Rielly was moved for picks or prospects, that cash could go straight to Ekblad and solidify the right side of the defense. Leafs need to dispose of both Marner and Rielly. Replace with picks to restock the cupboard. Brock Boeser, and Nikolaj Ehlers could be had for the price of Marner’s contract. You solidify the top 6 and the defense is stronger. Is it enough to win the Atlantic? Maybe. Some time soon, the drain of talent from Florida will finally take them out. Leafs have 2 years to get it done, before the younger teams like Ottawa, Montreal, and Detroit come knocking.
They can use stats all they want, but just points and goals isn’t an indicator of the worth of the marquee stars on the Leafs. McDavid is worth it. Matthews, not so sure. Marner, definitely not. The Leafs are really down to their last couple of year of having an open window to win a Championship. Once their core players hit 30, their skill will wane. Quick thinking by management could mitigate what is to come. They must find a way to move a core piece, receiving what they need to succeed in the playoffs. The current structure does not work and someone needs to be sacrificed for the benefit of moving forward. The young Turks from Ottawa, Montreal, Buffalo and Detroit will soon enough surface as playoff teams, meaning time is short to make this work. Does Leafs management have the stomach to take this issue on this season?
Lorentz and Laughton can get another chance (as rotational players) but Holmberg is another dog shitter. If this is the Leafs 4th line, expect 0 goals and more playoff failure.
I agree with this sentiment. Holmberg is a punching bag and not a playoff performer. I didn’t mind Lorentz and Laughton. They did their job. The big boys didn’t. Robertson is a player that some teams might see as a possible player that they can reclaim. Use him for either a pick, or as a bargaining chip in a bigger trade. Still think that Boeser is an option, if Marner walks. A different type of player, but has been a decent point producer in the past.
Florida always revamps their team, every year. Leafs ended up with Stolarz, OEL and Lorentz from Florida, last year. It’s cap management and they’re good at it. Either Bennett or Marchand won’t be back next year. Probably will let go Ekblad too. Boston went off their cliff this year, and expect Tampa to do the same, next year. Florida may also take a step back to retool. Leafs need to keep moving up the ladder and try to get first in the division again this year. Rielly, Marner, Robertson, Kampf, McMann and Holberg out should get the salary cap fixed and free agents taking their place in the lineup. Reaves on the cruise ship to Robidas Island, to enjoy the sunset of his hockey career.
LeBrun reported that Rielly is not waiving his no trade. These guys like LeBrun just don’t say stuff for $hits and giggles. They do have reputations.
We shouldn’t care about anything that the talking heads have to say. They’re part of the reason that this team can’t succeed. Treliving needs to just tell them to pound salt and do what he knows needs doing. The Leafs cannot win with Morgan Rielly. Hence, he must be moved. If he won’t go, then he can sit out the whole year or buy a new condo on Robidas Island. Ever since he got hooked up with his now wife, the figure skater, he’s now domesticated. Same goes for Marner. He’s a family man now and the team doesn’t come first. It’s why both need to be moved.
Cowan is noticeable in a good way.
He has an amazing skill set. Hounds the puck carriers. His skating is elite.
