Johnny Hoxville
The Return of a Legend
You're absolutely right. One is a top 10 scorer in the league and one is a solid top six winger. So why should JVR get a bigger deal? Even with a sweet heart contract?
The premium piece is the first. If Calgary has to give up two, they should hang up the phone.
TO is all about analytics and skill now, moving away from bigger players that are average at hockey. Granlund was a 2nd round pick, hes shown that he has top 6 skill and that he can play in the NHL. I actually think we may regret trading him, but I really don't see a place for him regardless. I think a 1st, a player like Granlund, and a guy like Ortio or Wotherspoon who is also a former 2nd and should be a steady dman for a long time is good value for the Leafs.
Honestly we found this out, when you rebuild you almost need to bottom out. They got Marner, now go get Mathews next year, that's how they are going to get their elite pieces. They won't get it from dealing JVR. But if you can get pieces that will help you turn the corner quicker and fit the direction you are going, while shedding cap, that's a win.