I get the idea of a Huberdeau for Nylander swap but it isn’t great value for Florida (which is better than my usual feeling on this board)
Huberdeau is coming off his second 90+ point season (I’ll take his pace as achieving it) and is signed to a very affordable contract for the next 3 years, which should cover most of his prime. He has insane chemistry with Barky
Nylander has been a 60-70 point forward for a few seasons (I’ll discount his bad 2018-2019) signed for a million more for a year more. I think it is possible that Nylander improves but how much is difficult: 75 points,85, 90?
I just don’t see the value in swapping for a player currently worst but with the potential to be better when the contract is more expensive now when cap is tight and is only one more year.
it took Huberdeau 7 seasons to hit the 90 point mark, which he has done one time, previous high 69 points, a few 50+, and high 20's in points his other seasons (injuries aside, that is not helpful)
Nylander is a few year behind, and has that one sucky high 20's season, else averages 60 (save 22 game rookie)
Huberdeau does not look like he will regress, and looks to have found/hit his stride in the NHL
Nylander is not there yet, and his 59pts in 68 games shows there is potential for growth still. ...how much, is to be determined
Nylanders hit a career high of 32 goals in the 68 games with is more than Huberdeau has ever scored (30 in his 92 point season)
Huberdeau may/should be able to hit 30 again (was trending slightly under 30 last season)
Nylander should be able to surpass 30 if history, and career trending holds true.
so, a Huberdeau for Nylander swap does favor Florida, if they want more goals, and speed/skill in the lineup. Huberdeau is a more rounded player in my opinion, but, if Nylander is never used in a defensive situation, its hard to say he cant, since not given the chance.
He could excel on the PK, as he has great puck takeaway numbers/ability, and speed, but, has never been placed in that role which is disappointing.
on championship teams the best players PK as well, not 'saved' for offense only. (this is a knock against leafs coaching the past few years)