Expert Describes Why the Maple Leafs Shouldn’t Make a $34 million forward trade
The Columbus Blue Jackets have asked for Patrik Laine to be traded, but NHL expert Jon Seitzer doesn’t believe the Toronto Maple Leafs should be interested in signing him.
The Maple Leafs were a common trade destination for the former second-overall pick in mock transactions after Laine demanded a trade. Although Toronto still lacks a forward, Seitzer believes the Maple Leafs shouldn’t acquire the standout player.
“Patrik Laine is someone I really like, and I like how transparent he has been about his experiences. The Maple Leafs can gain from 40-goal scorers, in my opinion as well.
“I wonder if the Leafs would end up on Laine’s 10-team no-trade list. The high expectations that will be placed on Laine, the amount of microphones in his face, and the lack of anonymity that comes with being a hockey player in Toronto might not be the best fit for Laine,” Seitzer continued.
Seitzer suggests that Laine would not perform well here because of the way the media has covered Mitch Marner and John Tavares. According to the analyst, Laine might become unimportant due to the strain of playing in Toronto, which is why Seizter doesn’t believe the Maple Leafs should part with their assets to sign him.
