Tavares is not physical in the slightest.

As a leafs fans very interesting trade, panarin is probably the better player but in terms of need, Leafs need a centre way more, even if Oreilly does come back not sure he’s an elite 2C anymore.

Leafs decline. Center > winger. And in terms of contract Tavares contract ends sooner which is needed if Leafs want to extend Marner

Goal was to increase financial flexibility long term while also just being a pain to play against. I don't think this team is a cup contender (unless of course Igor has another '21-'22 season in which case all bets are off) but I do think it this roster is better built for a north-south game than last years. Not the fastest team in the world but should be as good as anyone at creating havoc in front off the net. I think long term Tavares would be a great mentor for both Laffy and Kakko as someone who has had those expectations and overcame them.

Wanted to get rid of Trocheck, Trouba, Goodrow contracts but couldn't think of suitors for them where they would waive/couldnt imagine anyone taking on those contracts without a sweetner which NYR cant really do because farm system, as is, is pretty weak on everything except bottom 6 wingers so I prioritized keeping draft picks and creating some flexibility in the future.

Only thing I could think of was either: a) including Chytil (have trouble thinking of what TOR would send back because his contract and upside are arguably best on NYR), or b) Trocheck (good player who competes but is really a very good 3C as opposed to a 2C and who is 30+ w/ a contract I would drive him to the train station just to get rid of but Leafs with their core are a real cup threat and so maybe just want to go all in for this year and worry about cap later)

He himself isnt but the type of game he plays is more north-south than Panarin's east-west

Think though Leafs and Rangers fans can probably both agree if nothing else, the reaction from Islanders fans if Tavares went back to NY to play for the Rangers may actually make it worth it.