Nikita Grebenkin Goes Viral Again After Leafs Trade in New Interview

The Maple Leafs had not only a potential stud on their hands, but also an immediate fan-favorite in Nikita Grebenkin. The Russian forward endeared himself to the community with his witty interviews, boyish smile, and his legendary 'Forecheck, Backcheck, Paycheck" moniker that made him famous.

But now he's a member of the Philadelphia Flyers organization after being traded along with a first round pick for Scott Laughton. While it was sad to see him go, it was a premium player that cost a premium price.

Though Grebenkin isn't part of the blue and white anymore, he's still got a lot of love for the team that drafted him, and is hoping they succeed this Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Speaking with TSN's Mark Masters, the jovial power forward explained the situation of how his trade went down, though held absolutely no hard feelings towards GM Brad Treliving:

It's remarkable just how lovable Grebenkin is, and his humility and humble nature when it comes to not only understanding that this was not personal, but that he still holds a lot of love for the team should be commended.

He may not get a chance with the Flyers this season and will most likely play with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms for the rest of the year. He did appear in seven NHL games this season for the Maple Leafs, but didn't register a point.

In the AHL though, he's had a very solid season. In 43 games with both Toronto and Lehigh Valley, he has 24 points (11G, 13A) and was very successful in the KHL before coming over to North America.

But he's poised to find a lot of success and while he may not be a top line forward, there's no doubt he can add a lot of size, toughness and offensive potential to Philly's second or third line; especially if they are undergoing a serious rebuild.

The Maple Leafs may be destined for the playoffs, and Grebenkin has to watch from home, but he'll be cheering loud and telling his former teammates to forecheck, back check, and earn that paycheck.