How the Bo Horvat trade actually helps the Leafs in trade talks

Yesterday, the Vancouver Canucks shocked the NHL when they dealt captain and career Canuck Bo Horvat to the Islanders for Aatu Raty, Anthony Beauvillier and a top-12 protected first round selection in the 2023 draft. The pick would become an unprotected first round pick in 2024 if the Islanders pick ends up being a top-12 pick in the upcoming draft. On top of that, the Canucks retained 25% of Horvat's salary for the rest of the season.

It was no secret that the Canucks were hoping to get much more for Horvat, who is a pending UFA at the end of the season, but their asking price was evidently too high. What the Islanders gave up to acquire Horvat is a serviceable roster player in Beauvillier, a mid-to-late first round pick and a "B" level prospect.

Certainly, the Islanders' pick in this year's draft will be worth more than the Leafs' first round pick, but not by much at the end of the day. The other pieces involved are comparable to an Alexander Kerfoot/Pierre Engvall type and a very good prospect like Topi Niemela. Given that Horvat is having a far better season than, for instance, Ryan O'Reilly of the Blues, the asking price for O'Reilly has likely dropped significantly. Especially when you consider the fact that O'Reilly is currently injured.

With the market now set for top-6 center, the Leafs may have more assets to trade to bolster their lineup than previously expected. The Horvat trade could provide Kyle Dubas with an opportunity to acquire multiple pieces and please all of the insiders where some say they need multiple forwards, while others say they need a forward and defenseman, with some even saying an insurance goaltender may now be needed given the health issues with Matt Murray.