Quoting: coolfreeze18
The idea was to trade Pacio for Marleau + more, because Pacio is better, younger and less expensive.
Very interesting trade idea for Weber.
We might agree to disagree on Pacio and Marleau as I see Marleau doesn't have the offensive scoring as Pacio or JVR but plays the body, is an effective center, plays a complete 200 ft game and has soft hands in front of the net. After watching Marleau for a few games in San Jose especially the playoffs and being impressed I will concede that Pacio is better than Marleau in certain areas but as an overall player I feel that Marleau is better.
I have to be honest and admit that I haven't watched many regular season Hab's games in the last 3 years here on the East Coast of Canada since web streaming has allowed me access to the whole NHL schedule. I have caught almost all their playoff games though. The previous 42 years I was forced to watch Montreal games ad nauseam.
Gardiner is a top skater, very creative offensively (not sure if you have seen his amazing breakout passes that show an elite hockey IQ) and is 5 years younger than Weber. We have gotten burned by him like you used to with Subban but the offensive upside FAR out weighs the odd defensive gaff IMO. It would give Montreal that skill in a LHD that they are sorely lacking.
OTOH Weber is a strong, heavy shooting RHD that was never a great skater before and now has had serious leg injuries making him even slower. Interestingly, with the speed and skill on our defence we don't have anyone strong enough break up the cycle in our D zone nor do we have anyone with his shot. His lack of foot speed could be compensated for by a number of Leaf LHD. Retain just $2,357,143 while rebuilding and I feel both sides win.
Patches as a rental for a 1st pick and a top LW prospect gets Montreal cheaper and younger for a player that won't be coming back. Add a decent 3rd pair RHD like Carrick or Holl to sweeten the deal.