15 Apr 2016 13:01:02
For most of the trading 1st overall pick trades, ask yourself what is it the Leafs truly need to be a contender. a top line Centre.

So is Nylander top line, I peg him more 2nd line. Would D. Strome be top line, it's possible, but I would bet that Matthews has an even higher ceiling to be that top line Centre the Leafs have not had since Sundin!

We want a Chicago rebuild, not an Edmonton rebuild.

Drafting Matthews and adding a few other pieces with the other 1st and picks allows the Leafs to focus on winning and not trying to tank anymore

To CAL: C - T. Bozak + 2016 4th (Colorado)
To TOR: 2 2016 2nd round pick's.

1.) 15 Apr 2016
15 Apr 2016 14:51:19
While it is true that they need a first line center, they might have an inkling that they are going to be able to sign Stamkos and, if that is the case, it might make sense to trade that pick, should they win the lottery, for other pieces. Alternatively, they could draft Matthews and sign Stamkos.

2.) 15 Apr 2016
15 Apr 2016 17:08:18
IF. BIG IF the Leafs draft Matthews and/or sign Stammer it puts the Leafs in a tough position. They would have to move a number of centres out: Bozak, Kadri (who they just signed?), Holland, Nylander to the wing or third line centre?, Gautier (fourth line?). If they win the lottery they avoid Stammer at all costs. If they lose the lottery they pick up a Finn, if they pick fourth they go defense or trade down.

3.) 15 Apr 2016
15 Apr 2016 17:55:02
Well said Chris. I'm not sure regardless of where they pick if the leafs make a pitch for Stamkos. That's just my feeling.
Toronto buds I realize and respect your right to be awestruck for Matthews but I feel your excitement may cause you be shortchanging other players. Nylander is one of the top ranked prospects and looked pretty darn good in a leafs uniform albeit for a short time

4.) 16 Apr 2016
16 Apr 2016 03:00:47
If they get Matthews they won't trade him for anything unless it's McDavid coming back. I believe they would move Nylander to the wing as well if they got either Matthews or Stamkos

5.) 16 Apr 2016
16 Apr 2016 04:07:01
If Arizona offers Strome,Domi and their 1st. I'd take that with Stamkos, Kadri and Strome as your top 3 centres. Move Nylander to the wing (I think he will be better there) Bozak to be traded, Holland is an RFA and Gauthier will start with the marlies regardless.

I think will overpay( not Oel) for Mathews, he is worth big$$$$ for marketing

6.) 16 Apr 2016
16 Apr 2016 13:54:59
Not discounting Nylander at all, but could he be a top line Centre, sure, but I think he would make a great 2nd line Centre and just think Matthews could be that dominate top line Centre the Leafs have not had in over a decade!

Reference to the Chicago rebuild, here's the rationale

Marner > Kane
Matthews > Toews
Rielly > Keith
Kadri > Sharp

Leafs still need their Hossa and Seabrook, if they add Stamkos it will accelerate this process

7.) 21 Apr 2016
16 Apr 2016 16:07:21
I see where your going with the comparisons to the Chicago rebuild it's definitely worth emulating but I'm a little cautious about comparing anyone to Kane. To me he's one of the best players in the NHL and if the mark of a superstar is to make your team better and bring them cups to me he's it. Marner or Matthews could get there but a lot has to go right before then

8.) 21 Apr 2016
16 Apr 2016 16:25:07
Chris, the only centers they would need to move would be Bozak (who is probably trade bait anyway) and Holland. Nylander could easily be moved to the wing. Not such a tough position.

9.) 21 Apr 2016
17 Apr 2016 23:09:53
Nylander/Narner might be centres but would be dynamic wingers IMO

10.) 21 Apr 2016
21 Apr 2016 13:19:51
Agreed - My comparisons are on skill set. When Marner was being drafted he was compared to Kane, both played for London coincidentally. Marner's game is similar though and both are smaller players.