The Toronto Maple Leafs made a massive deal yesterday acquiring Ryan O'Reilly.
In the trade, they equally acquired bottom-six centerman Noel Acciari.
Acciari is having a great season, with 18 points in 54 games playing just over 14 minutes per night.
In that time, he has accumulated 168 hits. That immediately puts him in a commanding lead on the Leafs hits chart.
1. Acciari - 168
2. Sandin - 113
3. Aston-Reese - 112
4. Holl - 101
5. Tavares - 80
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Clearly Acciari provides a lot of value, even if it isn't on the scoresheet. It must be remembered, however, that O'Reilly only has 19 points.
This type of physical presence is what the Leafs have been lacking in their bottom-six, and Acciari could be paramount in their playoff success.
He also only makes $1.25-million, and likely won't command anymore on his next deal. If the fit is there, maybe Acciari will be more of a long-term piece.
It's an exciting day to be a Leafs fan!
Do you think the Leafs will keep Noel Acciari?
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Maple Leafs reporter addresses rumours of Mitch Marner's trade list