It’s only natural to expect Toronto would get another prospect or late draft pick back, but the fact that they gave up a good quantity of players is a part of why the deal was made from Toronto’s perspective. As Bob McKenzie was quick to point out, the Leafs were facing a problem being near the upper limit of 50 standard player contracts. This trade solved that problem by shedding players who were taking up spaces and were far enough down the depth chart that there would be minimal impact to the Leafs roster. Yet, because of the sheer number of prospects it cost, the Grabner deal might bring about questions as to the soundness of the asset management.
The Michael Grabner Trade: A look at asset and roster management
