Report: Versteeg, Kaberle Likely to be Traded
With the NHL's trade deadline quickly approaching Tomas Kaberle rumours are starting to pick up again. However, Pierre LeBrun of ESPN also reported on Thursday that Kaberle might not be the only current Leafs player on his way out.
LeBrun said that "if GM Brian Burke has his way, (Francois Beauchemin) won't be the only player to make an exit."
The Maple Leafs traded Beauchemin to the Anaheim Ducks on Wednesday in exchange for forward Joffrey Lupul, prospect Jake Gardiner and a conditional draft pick.
Versteeg
LeBrun reports that Versteeg is wondering about his future and that the Leafs are talking to other teams about him.
"I don't know too much," said Versteeg. "Obviously from getting asked questions, I know something might happen. You have to take it as compliment, too, if other teams want you to go help them."
The 24-year-old has 14 goals and 21 assists for a total of 35 points in 52 games this season.
My thoughts: Versteeg has played well for the Leafs this season, although he has been very streaky. Any team contending for a playoff spot and looking for a top-six forward would be interested in him for sure, as he is a decent second line winger who can produce a good amount of points. He would be a big loss for Toronto, although he could draw a good return─even an upgrade at the forward position─if packaged with a player like Fredrik Sjostrom.
Kaberle
Kaberle, who has been listening to trade rumours swirl around his head for years now, is set to become a free agent at the end of the season. LeBrun reports that Leafs GM Brian Burke is more likely to trade him this time around, however, he does still have a no-trade clause, meaning he controls his destination.
LeBrun says he believes Boston, Montreal and the New York Rangers are among "several" teams he believes are interested in him. He also says that Leafs management will eventually approach him with a trade offer and he'll say yes or no, and that Kaberle fully knows that.
"If it happens, it happens," said Kaberle. "That's the NHL. It's going to happen or not. I'm up to it, whatever happens, happens. It's something every player has to go through at the deadline."
The Rakovnik, Czech Republic native has three goals, 33 assists and a minus-2 rating in 55 games this season.
My thoughts: There is no way the Maple Leafs can allow Kaberle to go to free agency and sign with another team, while receiving no compensation. There is no doubt he can result in a big return, even a top-line centre or winger; something the Maple Leafs must take advantage of.
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