Darren Dreger, a prominent NHL insider, has playfully put forth a hypothetical, massive trade scenario involving the Toronto Maple Leafs and the St. Louis Blues. While acknowledging the unlikelihood of the Maple Leafs moving their first overall draft pick, Dreger entertained the idea as a thought experiment.
During a discussion about the rarity of top draft picks changing hands, Dreger noted that only 11 times since 2005 has a top-10 pick been traded, with just one of those being a top-five selection. Despite this, he suggested a trade package that could potentially include the first overall pick along with players like Robert Thomas and Colton Parayko from the St. Louis Blues. Dreger questioned if the first overall pick alone would be sufficient for both players, hinting that additional assets might be required.
He further fueled the speculation by proposing the inclusion of Jordan Binnington, the Blues’ goaltender, in the deal. This hypothetical would then see the Maple Leafs potentially sending one of their own goaltenders, considering the strong performance of their American Hockey League goalies, Dennis Hildeby and Artur Akhtyamov.
Dreger emphasized that this is a speculative exercise for enjoyment, and he still believes such a significant trade is improbable. The discussion also touched upon the Toronto Maple Leafs’ need to address their roster, particularly in acquiring a defenseman, preferably a right-shot, and additional forward depth, with players like Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and William Nylander having limited contract years remaining.
English Translation:
Darren Dreger, a prominent NHL insider, has playfully put forth a hypothetical, massive trade scenario involving the Toronto Maple Leafs and the St. Louis Blues. While acknowledging the unlikelihood of the Maple Leafs moving their first overall draft pick, Dreger entertained the idea as a thought experiment.
During a discussion about the rarity of top draft picks changing hands, Dreger noted that only 11 times since 2005 has a top-10 pick been traded, with just one of those being a top-five selection. Despite this, he suggested a trade package that could potentially include the first overall pick along with players like Robert Thomas and Colton Parayko from the St. Louis Blues. Dreger questioned if the first overall pick alone would be sufficient for both players, hinting that additional assets might be required.
He further fueled the speculation by proposing the inclusion of Jordan Binnington, the Blues’ goaltender, in the deal. This hypothetical would then see the Maple Leafs potentially sending one of their own goaltenders, considering the strong performance of their American Hockey League goalies, Dennis Hildeby and Artur Akhtyamov.
Dreger emphasized that this is a speculative exercise for enjoyment, and he still believes such a significant trade is improbable. The discussion also touched upon the Toronto Maple Leafs’ need to address their roster, particularly in acquiring a defenseman, preferably a right-shot, and additional forward depth, with players like Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and William Nylander having limited contract years remaining.
