19 Jan 2018 14:46:22
TOR: JVR, Ben Smith

WAS: Matt Niskanen, 2nd (FLO)

Caps need another LW after Ovie. The Caps are known to take rentals (Shattenkirk), and they clearly have a need for JVR. We move Ben Smith while he's hot, to get a contract space.

Niskanen is a constantly good defensive RHD with pretty decent offense. He lays out hits(147) and blocks a fair number of shots. He's not a fighter though.

His contract is a little harsh, but if we move Gardiner, much more palatable.

At 30, he shows little sign of decay, and while missing a few games this season; has been an iron man in terms of health

The Caps have Carlson to re-sign and Bowey, as well as Eller, Wilson, and Chiasson; all with a current cap space of less than 1M.

So JVR is a cheap, affordable, quality option for them, and they save 0.7 M this year.

The Leafs get their steady veteran RHD who actually has great balanced numbers offensively and defensively.

1.) 19 Jan 2018
19 Jan 2018 19:17:11
I like this trade. The 2nd would likely have to be conditional on JVR resigning. Niskanen would bring a presence the leafs lack. This would also finally force Babcock to play Polak less, if at all. Let him rotate our 3rd pairing between Borgman, Dermott and Carrick. Carrick likely ends as 7th man.

2.) 21 Jan 2018
21 Jan 2018 10:27:42
wow I actually like this one from both sides well done. Ben Smith is rocking now and has value. He always had potential though.