tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2610527122550067891.post4242483474918181687..comments2023-07-25T11:40:43.810-04:00Comments on Blue Chip Prospects: The Pros and Cons of Pursuing Rick NashCurt Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817914669452185454noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2610527122550067891.post-51204355814400171932012-02-15T10:55:21.159-05:002012-02-15T10:55:21.159-05:00Rick Nash is a bit of a tough case. His contract, ...Rick Nash is a bit of a tough case. His contract, while huge, lasts until he is 33, at which point we can still reasonably expect him to be performing at a high calibre, and he will likely be pretty good trade bait at the TDL at that point should the Leafs be on the downswing. I know that's a long time from now, but it doesn't hurt to think ahead.<br /><br />As you mentioned, there are tons of pros to having Nash on the Leafs. He's a hometown kid, he's big, he's got cotton soft hand, he's a smooth skater, and he's outrageously talented. I think one thing that simply <b>cannot be understated</b> that works to Nash's advantage, is that HE IS AVAILABLE. As much as people pine for a Parise/Ryan contract that's more cap-friendly, players of their (and Nash's) calibre simply do not become available. Period. Every year a bunch of people talk about guys like Iginla, Weber, Getzlaf, Stamkos last year, etc. Teams don't let these players go, because they are not easily replaced. <br /><br />Of course, what do the Leafs give up if Nash does come over? You mentioned Grabo would be gone if the Leafs got Nash, but I don't necessarily think that's the case. If Burke can smartly shed the contracts of guys like Komi/Connolly/Lombardi/Armstrong, there will be space for Grabovski. The Leafs have cap space now, and consider that any package for Nash, I think would have to start with Schenn + Kulemin (if I'm Howson, those are the 2 young players I'm starting with). Then there will have to be a 1st round pick or top prospect, and some kind of salary from the Leafs going back as well.<br /><br />Is it too much to give up? Probably, but I would just give Burke the benefit of the doubt. If there is a good deal he'll make it, but I am reasonably sure he won't overpay.Darrylhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16695391040376508320noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2610527122550067891.post-58854952764669816882012-02-15T10:02:54.520-05:002012-02-15T10:02:54.520-05:00Yes, it does address the need of a big, top 6 powe...Yes, it does address the need of a big, top 6 power forward, however for that cap hit I'd rather have Jeff Carter (with his long contract) and a gritty 3rd line forward with a strong forecheck. <br /><br />I do agree that we have a log jam of top 6 role type players, but I feel removing them for one $7.8million winger does not fit the need of the team. I was opposite of you, Curt. I started believing that Nash would be the perfect fit for the team. Also, at the rate that the Lupul/Kessel combo has been performing, it would be hard to consider breaking them up. That means that Nash would be moving to a 2nd line role, which would not be utilizing him to his whole value.<br /><br />Having Nash would inevitably mean that Grabovski is gone next year. I currently have the thought of having Carter and Grabovski as a 1/2 punch at centre is extremely beneficial to the success of the leafs.<br /><br />I still believe that shedding the contracts of Lombardi and Connolly would be beneficial as they are both playing outside of their preferred roles.<br /><br />I think Burke would be best suited to meet the teams primary needs (big 1st line centre and some grit and size for the 3rd line) before filling spots that have already been filled. From Columbus, I'd rather see Carter and someone like Sami Pahlsson. <br /><br />This all being said, if Burke were to pick up Nash, I would not be upset. However, I feel that it would not be the smartest move for Burke and the leafs.Duncanhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17590653506462493874noreply@blogger.com