great move

Seems like a lot to give up for a marginal upgrade over Hutchinson. Also why not target Tristian Jarry instead? He just stole the backup position spot and his cap hit is lower than DeSmith's even with retention.

What needs to be addressed is that the Kapanen-Tavares-Marner line has looked non-existent at this point.

Because desmith is better

I think that's up for debate since he just cleared waivers

My goodness............. Desmith just cleared waivers and now he's worth 4 pieces?

Can Nylander play LW? I know he can play RW and C. In that case you could put Johnsson up with Tavares and Marner, than make the Matthews line: Nylander-Matthews-Kapanen. Idk if its gonna do anything though considering both Johnsson and Kapanen are both yet to record any points.

Wasn't DeSmith eligible to on waivers and all 30 teams. Really think he better than Hutchinson? Obviously Leafs don't think so. Leafs are in a win mode, and Hyman is an important member of the Leafs.

Agreed, I wouldn't give that up for a backup who just cleared waivers no less

Funny how the Leafs have 5 of possible 6 points, and now folks want to get rid of Kapanen and Hutchinson. Don't think you can blame Hutchinson for the goals against Montreal

I hear ya, I hate how most of leafs nation overreact's to just about everything it makes us all look bad... I mean it was one play in one game for kapy and hutch is a backup facing a ton of pressure playing in the most demanding market. It's one game early in the season I wish people would just chill, but it's nice to be able to talk to level headed fans like yourself

LOL. You call me level headed. Actually there are lots of level headed fans, on this site. Hard to do, cause" fans"s a sort form of FANatics. You are relatively new to the site but I like your logic/presentation in our discussions.

I think you are extremely level headed and you're right there are a lot of level headed fans on here which is why I enjoy coming on here. I get that fans are fanatics and we all have our moments but for the most part it's nice to talk with people who are open-minded. I appreciate that I've had many great discussions on here with you as well.

DeSmith has an excellent glove hand.

They’ve tried that combination before but it didn’t work because neither Kapanen or Nylander are comfortable playing on the off-wing. I think Kapanen would benefit playing on a line with Mikheyev and Kerfoot given his fast, aggressive style with the puck.

Agreed. My only issue is breaking up that 3rd line. But there doesn't seem like much that can be done. The only other option would be to stack the first line and use the 3rd as the second which is probably not a good idea.