Why Depth On The Blue Line Is A Good Thing
September 16th, 2008 by SteveDepth is a desirable attribute in sporting franchises. In the case of this upcoming season for the Toronto Maple Leafs there are two specific reasons their numbers on D are so valuable - injuries and trading options.
In the case of the former, obviously many of the defenders on the Leafs have a history of injury issues. Mike Van Ryn and Carlo Colaiacovo have both spent copious amounts of time in the infirmary over the past few seasons. Staffan Kronwall has had his progress derailed by injuries over both of the last two seasons. Pavel Kubina has also missed some time due to nagging injuries since he first came to Toronto. Since the Leafs have between 9 and 10 NHL ready defensemen this at least implies they will remain competitive defensively if they lose one or two for extended portions of the season.
When it comes to trading options, many have decried the loss of offensive talent, draft picks, and prospects over the past few seasons when it comes to the Leafs. To this end, as the season progresses, it becomes entirely likely that the Leafs will be in the market for any and all of the above. Thankfully, they possess talent in an area many other teams will be in the market for. I would personally expect Ian White, Staffan Kronwall, and Mike Van Ryn to all be available on the trade market at some point this season. The only likely “untouchables” on the Leafs’ back end are Schenn, Stralman, Kaberle, and Kubina… and even Kaberle may see that status change if he becomes uninspired by his new fellow team-mates. It is also important to remember that Kaberle would likely fetch the greatest return in a trade at this point in his career.
As we look forward to the upcoming season, it is important to remember that the Leafs are a squad that is still in flux. We are far from the final product, when it comes to the team that management is hoping to ice for the future. This is a season of assessment for the Leafs, and while I personally think it possible they will surprise many of their naysayers, I do not expect them to make the playoffs.
Expect them to make further moves during the season and yet further changes before 2009-10.
Posted in Player Analysis, Stat Analysis
