why would Vrana for Labanc be considered an even swap?

It's more even than we'd think at first glance. Also, Labanc has far better underlying numbers than his point totals would indicate. Just needs a change of scenery.

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Ok but Vrana has 8g in 10 games with STL and when you add in his 2a he is at a point a game pace. Labanc may need a change pace but Vrana clearly doesn't. So why trade a player who is thriving in STL for a player that might bounce back? I have nothing against Labanc he is a solid bottom 6 forward but he isn't going to return Vrana.

Ehh no thanks.

Totally fair point. This trade scenario probably could only ever happen if STL management talks to Vrana about signing an extension this summer and for whatever reason they can't arrive at a negotiation for money/term and one or both parties get jaded enough to make this deal happen. In a nutshell, unlikely.