The Toronto Maple Leafs could have an opportunity to land a promising RFA in a 1-for-1 deal that could solve issues for both clubs involved.
Specifically, this deal involves RFA Luke Evangelista and the Nashville Predators. Evangelista, 23, ended his entry-level deal this past season. However, the winger and the Predators have yet to agree on a new contract.
The situation prompted notable insider Luke Fox to declare:
“The only one I wonder about is Luke Evangelista; right now the sides are apart; they can’t agree on term; the Predators…might be a little bit more into shaking things up.”
Fox’s comments as made on the Halford and Brough Show on August 29, highlighted how the Predators could be willing to move Evangelista ahead of training camp.
Here’s where the Maple Leafs come into the picture. Evangelista is from Oakville, Ontario, and could be eager to join the Leafs. Heading the other way could be another young player who doesn’t have a clear role in the Maple Leafs’ lineup and could be looking for a fresh start.
Here’s a look at the proposed 1-for-1 trade:
Maple Leafs get:
Luke Evangelista, F
Predators get:
Nick Robertson, F
Robertson would be a player roughly equivalent to Evangelista. He had more goals (15) last season than Evangelista. However, Evangelista had more total points (32). He appeared in just 68 games. So, it’s plausible to think he could have surpassed the 40-point mark if he had played the entire 82-game schedule.
Maple Leafs and Predators Solve an Issue for Both Clubs with Proposed Trade
The Maple Leafs and Predators both have a potential hot potato with Robertson and Evangelist. The Leafs and Robertson agreed to a one-year deal earlier this summer as a means of avoiding an arbitration hearing.
However, Evangelista and the Predators did not opt for arbitration. So, the impasse remains despite training camp being right around the corner. Since there doesn’t seem to be a solution in sight, the Maple Leafs could bring Evangelista in and work out a deal before camp opens.
For Robertson, heading to Nashville could be the fresh start he’s been looking for. His progress has stalled in Toronto, potentially squeezing him out of the lineup. A new start with the Preds could be just what Robertson needs to get his once-promising career back on track.
Where Evangelista Fits into Toronto’s Lineup
Evangelista wouldn’t immediately jump into the Maple Leafs’ lineup. He would likely have to compete for a bottom-six spot. Nevertheless, he might have a better shot at landing a spot over other forwards like David Kampf, Calle Jarnkrok, and even Max Domi.
If Evangelista has a solid camp, he might push Steven Lorentz for a fourth-line role. Now, Evangelista’s upside is much higher than a fourth-line grinder role. That’s why the Maple Leafs could do well to give him a look in the top six, especially if Matias Maccelli doesn’t quite work out on the top line with Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies.
Overall, Luke Evangelista would be a worthwhile move for the Maple Leafs. If bringing in Evangelista could represent giving Robertson a fresh opportunity in Nashville, this deal has the potential to be a win-win for everyone.
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