Brad Treliving Urged to Pursue Cost-Effective Forward Following Latest Report
Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving could do himself and his team a solid by trading for Brandon Tanev, given that Seattle is willing to do them a pretty big favor.
It's time for a deal to be done when it comes to the Maple Leafs. They've seen other teams beef up their roster and make some significant deals, and while the team isn't going to necessarily make a blockbuster; some type of trade has to be made.
So instead of breaking the bank with his prospects, and trying to wiggle around no-movement clauses and skittish teams, they should take heed of some new information out of Seattle that shows they're willing to help them out.
With Seattle taking on 50% cap space for teams, Toronto shouldn't hesitate to jump on a deal for Tanev.
Brandon Tanev Brings Grit And Unique Chemistry To Maple Leafs
While he won't light the lamp too much (though he is certainly capable), Tanev's skillset involves getting down and dirty, laying his body on the line and keeping opponents frustrated at every opportunity.
This season, Tanev has nine goals and eight assists but brings with him 91 blocked shots and 120 hits; he plays hard and works hard. A very sound defensive forward is what Toronto needs on their third line, and Tanev fits perfectly.
Not only does his fit in with Craig Berube's game plan, but he would add a unique chemistry with not only teammate, but older brother Chris.
Adding the shot-blocking brethren would be a massive boost to Toronto's playoff chances, as both men aren't afraid to lay their bodies on the line for the sake of the team.
Between both men, they have 242 blocks and 131 hits (Chris rarely hits and is more of a front of the net presence and a brick wall between the point and the slot) so Brandon is responsible for a lot of the physicality, but adding that to a team that thrives on that style of play shouldn't be overlooked.
He makes $3.5M and with salary retention, that number shrinks to $1.75M which is a very reasonable deal and a much easier salary figure to work with when it comes to adding a player to an already stretched cap situation.
All of those factors should lead Brad Treliving to take a good hard look at Brandon Tanev. He has all the credentials needed to help Toronto, he gets to play and potentially win with his brother on his childhood team.
Doesn't get much better than that, honestly.
