Versatile Two-Way Forward Emerges as Underrated Target for Maple Leafs
Photo credit: Brett Holmes-Imagn Images
If the Maple Leafs wanted to add a reliable two-way forward to their ranks this summer, perhaps a trade for Detroit's Andrew Copp makes a lot of sense according to analyst Kevin Papetti.
While the NHL offseason for the Maple Leafs has been quite hectic already with the re-signings of Matthew Knies and John Tavares, a potential Mitch Marner sign and trade with Vegas and the prospects of free agency looming within the next 24 hours.
Amongst the bevy of moves, the team is going to scour the market for some budget options, and may need to rely on some rebuilding teams to help get the pieces they need.
Detroit might be willing to part with Andrew Copp
One of those teams are the Detroit Red Wings, who are currently mired in misery, having missed the postseason for the last nine seasons. They just acquired John Gibson to give them some help, but they have a few contracts they would be able to dump if they opted to move a different direction.
According to NHL Analyst Kevin Papetti, responding to Nick Kypreos' statement on social media, with the Red Wings open to retaining salary on a deal for Andrew Copp; the Leafs should make a play, so long as the price is right.
Copp, 30, is a very reliable and steady two-way forward who can give you double digit goals while playing exceptional defense, win face-offs, kill penalties and stay out of the box himself.
He had 23 points in 56 games this season with the Red Wings, and has 300 points in 700 career games (114G, 186A).
Toronto needs to jump on opportunity to acquire Copp
He does make a total of $5.625-million for the next two seasons, and Detroit has three retention slots left. If they were to take on 50% of Copp's salary, it would only be a $2.31-million hit, a very solid option for a middle-six forward.
Toronto might be able to trade a couple of picks to the rebuilding Red Wings, or perhaps they can dump off a name like Bobby McMann and a pick in order to give Detroit an NHL-ready player, but with an expiring deal.
Copp would slide in perfectly in the 3C position, and with the likelihood David Kampf is headed out of town, allows Scott Laughton to move into the 4C; a much more suitable position for him frankly.
It's a great, cheap move for Brad Treliving if he wants to change the team's DNA, but he might have some bigger things in mind come Tuesday.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 30 | 483 ANSWERS Versatile Two-Way Forward Emerges as Underrated Target for Maple Leafs Should Andrew Copp be a trade target for the Maple Leafs? | ||
| Yes | 231 | 47.8 % |
| No | 252 | 52.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
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