Leafs connected to underrated trade target who could really help bolster the bottom six
This week, NHL Insider David Pagnotta connected the Leafs to one trade target that's been flying under the radar. He may be from the St. Louis Blues, but he's not Vladimir Tarasenko or Ryan O'Reilly. No - the player that the Leafs are reportedly interested in is Ivan Barbashev.
Barbashev, at 27 years old, is on an expiring contract for only $2.25M. He's taken a step back offensively this year from last as well, but it could be an opportunity to buy low on the player. In 38 games this year, Barbashev has only 5 goals and 16 points - but last year, Barbashev potted 26 goals and 60 points over 81 games.
His decline in production could be attributed to the inconsistency the Blues have played with as a team this year, along with less ice time as the Blues have younger players like Jordan Kyrou and Robert Thomas emerging as stars. In general, the Blues have been better as of late, but their poor start to the season has triggered talk of a fire sale at the trade deadline.
Even if Barbashev doesn't produce offensively like he has in the past, he's still an asset in his play away from the puck. He's a physical presence on the forecheck with 82 recorded hits on the year, and can reliably play defensively if needed, an asset that was integral in the Blues' 2019 Cup win.
For a player who isn't primarily known for his offensive production, it'll be interesting to see what package of assets it would take to acquire Barbashev. Most likely, he will be one of the cheaper, more savvy adds for a contender towards the trade deadline.
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 5 | 132 ANSWERS Leafs connected to underrated trade target who could really help bolster the bottom six Should the Leafs go after Ivan Barbashev? | ||
| Yes | 77 | 58.3 % |
| No | 55 | 41.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
