Quote:
Originally Posted by Erick Estrada
Well yeah because Iginla (suggestions of trading him really didn't come until he was in his 30's) and Kipper were both post apex players who are the type of players you move from in a rebuild. Kessel is in his prime and the reason the Flames moved Boumeester is the same reason the Leafs are trying to move Kessel. Guy isn't a leader or a player you can count on to carry a team. Not the type of player you want around in a rebuild.
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Very few single players can consistently "carry a team" in hockey. This isn't basketball. Have you been watching the Stanley Cup Finals? Stamkos, Toews, Kane have all had off games. But Kessel definitely has the ability to be a game changer.
But the Leafs have no use for him right now. They will likely a be very bad team for the next few seasons, so it makes sense to trade him now when he is in his prime. Why keep him on the team? If they can trade him now it can push the rebuild forward quicker.