Talking Trades

Despite the win on the weekend over the Washington Capitals, the Toronto Maple Leafs are in a very tough spot. They are in last place and already 10 points back from the final playoff position. They aren't out of the race yet, but their odds continue to fall every week. The game tonight against the New York Islanders will give us a strong indication of whether this team will fight for a spot or if they are going to roll over.

This team needs a change both in the locker room and on the ice, and it needs some new blood. That is why the trade rumours continue to surround this hockey club. Could a trade be coming in the next few days or weeks?

One rumour making the rounds involves Chicago and Toronto. With Duncan Keith, Jonathan Toews, and Patrick Kane all due for new contracts, Chicago needs to shed some salary. Toronto is close to the cap, but is willing to move an expiring contract. One name that is thrown about is Brent Sopel. With a modest $2.3 million hit, moving Sopel would give Chicago the room they need moving forward to extend the contracts of their three young players. Sopel is not a poor player, though. He has struggled with injuries, but is a solid defensive defender who has shown some offensive ability. His 42 points in 2003/04 are proof of that. He is also a career plus player over the course of his NHL career. According to rumour, going the other way would be Garnett Exelby. "X" has a reputation as one of the better open ice hitters in the league, but he has looked only average so far this season. His salary and expiring contract make him very tradeable. Toronto would recieve a draft pick in compensation from Chicago is the deal, as well.

Would this be a trade Toronto should explore? I believe it is. Losing Exelby is not a loss, and Sopel's salary would not hinder the Leafs going forward as they shed a ton of salary in the off-season. Sopel would be a solid 5-6 defenceman for the Maple Leafs and would be a good depth player. Also, getting any draft picks would be a plus for the Maple Leafs after giving up their 1st and 2nd round picks in the Kessel deal.

There are other trade rumours involving Brian Campbell moving for Kaberle, and trading with St. Louis. I have only discussed the deal I feel is the most realistic and likely at the moment.

What do you think? Post a comment below and tell me your opinion!