Kyle Dubas Explains Why He Traded Rasmus Sandin

PUBLICATION

Julien Trekker
March 3, 2023 (8:12 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

The NHL trade deadline has come and gone, and for the Toronto Maple Leafs, it was a relatively quiet day.

Right after, Leafs' general manager Kyle Dubas spoke with the media to discuss the team's moves leading up to and on deadline day.

Kyle Dubas Explains His Trades Ahead Of The Playoffs

Dubas mentionned the decision to trade Rasmus Sandin and Pierre Engvall, stating that the Leafs felt that the draft capital coming back was going to be useful in either adding a higher-end prospect to their system or surveying the trade market in the future.

Here's what he said:

"With regard to Rasmus, he's been a part of the organization for nearly 5 years and as we went through it here, we just felt that the draft capital coming back was going to be something that we could use to either add a higher end prospect to our system in June in Nashville, or survey what the market's going to be as we get into June in terms of trade. We felt that was important for where we're at right now and where our roster was going to be. That was the decision-making that went into it."

Kyle Dubas also addressed the addition of Luke Schenn, explaining that the team had identified the need for a big, physical defenseman and that Schenn was a great fit.

The moves were made with an eye towards improving the Leafs' defense, which has been an area of concern for the team this season.

Dubas' approach shows a commitment to the long-term success of the team. By prioritizing draft capital and addressing specific needs on the back end, the Leafs are setting themselves up for a strong playoff run and sustained success in the future.

Source Maple Leafs Daily:
GM Kyle Dubas explains why the Leafs decided to trade Rasmus Sandin, reasons for targeting Schenn, Gustafsson