Canucks trade McCann,2nd,4th to Florida for Gudbranson,5th

[LuncheonMeat]

Gudbranson always seemed like a decent skater for me, he just sucks at hockey apart from that, not great with the puck on his stick and positionally he is weak.

He is big, physical and moves well, it's all the hockey skills that he lacks.

He's a decent skater once he gets up to speed, but, his first couple strides and his ability to make quick adjustments, etc. are lacking - which is a major problem from a defensive mobility standpoint.

I think the Knights - Rouyn-Noranda Huskies game the other day was a glimpse into where the game is going. It wasn't overly physical, but the speed and skill on both sides was insane. I don't think guys with Gudbranson's skill set will be able to compete in that type of game.

 

[WhatIfGodWasALeaf]

According to reports in Vancouver this week, Benning has been told they need to win now because the Aquillani's want to sell the team and they think a playoff team would fetch more.

 

[Tigger]

According to reports in Vancouver this week, Benning has been told they need to win now because the Aquillani's want to sell the team and they think a playoff team would fetch more.

Reminds me of Burke's Leafs.

 

[Kin]

According to reports in Vancouver this week, Benning has been told they need to win now because the Aquillani's want to sell the team and they think a playoff team would fetch more.

Man, as bad as they looked last year you'd have to think a major turnaround would be needed for that. Wouldn't be surprised to see them make the biggest offer for Stamkos.

 

[WhatIfGodWasALeaf]

According to reports in Vancouver this week, Benning has been told they need to win now because the Aquillani's want to sell the team and they think a playoff team would fetch more.

Man, as bad as they looked last year you'd have to think a major turnaround would be needed for that. Wouldn't be surprised to see them make the biggest offer for Stamkos.

Absolutely, you'd think they might be seriously looking for a significant contributor in return for their first rounder.

I don't know that there is a player at #5 that can step right in and make an impact.

You have to imagine Dubas calls Benning every other hour in case an idea pops into his head.

JVR maybe?

 

[Tigger]

JVR might be attractive there, sure. Maybe Erikkson too.

 

[Kin]

Absolutely, you'd think they might be seriously looking for a significant contributor in return for their first rounder.

I don't know that there is a player at #5 that can step right in and make an impact.

You have to imagine Dubas calls Benning every other hour in case an idea pops into his head.

JVR maybe?

That seems like a lot for JVR but the interesting thing is Vancouver's fairly well situated, if they are pursuing a win now strategy, to do that sort of thing. They've made 5 first round picks in the last three drafts(although they dealt one in McCann already) so it's not like they'd have an empty cupboard.

They also have a very interesting goaltending prospect in Thatcher Demko. I definitely agree they'd be on speed dial if I were Dubas or Lamoriello or Shanahan or whoever's making those calls for the Leafs.

 

[WhatIfGodWasALeaf]

Absolutely, you'd think they might be seriously looking for a significant contributor in return for their first rounder.

I don't know that there is a player at #5 that can step right in and make an impact.

You have to imagine Dubas calls Benning every other hour in case an idea pops into his head.

JVR maybe?

That seems like a lot for JVR but the interesting thing is Vancouver's fairly well situated, if they are pursuing a win now strategy, to do that sort of thing. They've made 5 first round picks in the last three drafts(although they dealt one in McCann already) so it's not like they'd have an empty cupboard.

They also have a very interesting goaltending prospect in Thatcher Demko. I definitely agree they'd be on speed dial if I were Dubas or Lamoriello or Shanahan or whoever's making those calls for the Leafs.

Yeah, they have a few assets that could theoretically fetch a handsome return.

Given recent evidence though I'm not sure I trust Benning with getting the best return.

I'd be fine with JVR and a couple of the surplus prospects on the Marlies that still have some value.

JVR, Holland, Marlie for #5, undesirable contract and late round pick?

 

[herman]

I can see both Florida and Vancouver vying for JvR's services. I can also see Vancouver being dumber about it.

 

[pmrules]

I can see both Florida and Vancouver vying for JvR's services. I can also see Vancouver being dumber about it.

Agreed on those two teams. What about Montreal?  If any team is in a win now situation it's Montreal.  They've got a top 10 pick that might not help when they need it. 

 

[bustaheims]

Agreed on those two teams. What about Montreal?  If any team is in a win now situation it's Montreal.  They've got a top 10 pick that might not help when they need it.

JvR is too tall for the Habs.

 

[Kin]

Agreed on those two teams. What about Montreal?  If any team is in a win now situation it's Montreal.  They've got a top 10 pick that might not help when they need it.

JvR is too tall for the Habs.

So really, when you think about it, they should be looking to deal Galchenyuk.

 

[bustaheims]

So really, when you think about it, they should be looking to deal Galchenyuk.

I'm almost surprised they haven't.

 

[WhatIfGodWasALeaf]

So really, when you think about it, they should be looking to deal Galchenyuk.

I'm almost surprised they haven't.

I'm surprised they haven't traded for JVR and played him at centre with Galchenyuk on his wing.  ;D