Analyst links Penguins to flipping Vincent Desharnais in another trade to Canadian team
It's been less than 48 hours since the Vancouver Canucks traded former Oilers defenseman Vincent Desharnais to the Pittsburgh Penguins and it appears that the Toronto Maple Leafs maybe the new home for the defender if the Penguins decide to flip him.
It's been well documented that Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving is looking for more defensive help as the Maple Leafs are in a win now mode.
Desharnais would likely cost a low draft pick in a deal
Desharnais' time with the Canucks did not work well as he had signed a two-year deal worth $4 million holding a cap hit of 2,000,000 per season.
The 28-year-old defenseman who stands at six foot 7 and 227 lbs would certainly fit in the Maple Leafs bottom pairing as he is a right hand shot and would give the Leafs minutes during the playoffs.
It's worth noting, that he has not received a great review in his game and would certainly put tree living on notice whether to make a deal or not to. At $2,000,000 AAV, the Maple Leafs would require the Pittsburgh Penguins retain 50% of his salary and would likely give a low pick either a 6th or 7th round if they interested in him.
Leafs looking to shop before buying at the deadline
This season is particularly important for the Maple Leafs as this could be the final year they have all of their original core together as superstar winger Mitch Marner and veterans centre John Tavares are heading to unrestricted free agency at the end of the season and neither have locked in a new contract.
So it's safe to say that the Maple Leafs will be all at the deadline and may acquire a player like Vincent Desharnais if they feel he will help them.
Having three assists all season certainly does not warrant a major trade with high draft picks and high prospects.
