Analyst touches on the main needs for the Leafs, mentions two VERY spicy names
The Leafs Nation released their mid-season analysis today on Leafs Morning Take, during which analysts provided insight about the Leafs' situation at forward, on the blueline and even in goal. One segment caught our attention: Nick Alberga asked Matt Larkin a juicy question during the episode.
According to Matt Larkin, the Leafs "need to find their version of what Nicholas Paul brought to the Tampa Bay Lightning last year". This means, according to Larkin, Dubas should be on the lookout for an "all-situations" forward or a middle-six player that has that physical aspect to his game.
We've heard trade rumors about Tyler Bertuzzi potentially coming to the Leafs before March 3rd. There's certainly a fit there and Larkin believes this is not a bad idea. Despite the fact he is not an especially large body, Bertuzzi plays with some grit and sandpaper, but still has the hands to finish and this is the type of player Dubas should try to acquire in Larkin's mind.
The popular analyst also said a few words about what is needed for the Leafs' defense corps - a reliable top four defenseman who could replace Jake Muzzin longer term, with Muzzin's playing future in doubt.
Concerning the goaltending, Larkin believes it is no big deal for now, but Dubas should start considering making changes if there are still "cracks in the armor". He mentioned Juuse Saros could be a great option for the Leafs if Matt Murray and/or Ilya Samsonov are struggling at the deadline. Dubas does not currently need to make a big move in net, but Larkin cautions that another month of iffy play from the Leafs' goaltenders may force Dubas' hand.
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 10 | 459 ANSWERS Analyst touches on the main needs for the Leafs, mentions two VERY spicy names Would you like to see Tyler Bertuzzi land in Toronto? | ||
| Yes | 197 | 42.9 % |
| No | 138 | 30.1 % |
| Only at a fair price | 124 | 27 % |
| List of polls | ||
