Soshnikov, a free agent signing out of Russia, was never able to stay healthy and fell victim to a numbers game at the Leafs’ organizationally deep position of left wing. He was never able to get traction at the NHL level. Undersized with a robust style of play, the only constant during his time here seemed to be injuries. He was also never able to play on his proper side — the left wing — and was normally playing with non-NHLers (Matt Martin, Ben Smith) on his wrong side (right wing) on the 4th line — not exactly ideal for taking hold of a roster spot and never looking back.
Toronto Maple Leafs trade Nikita Soshnikov to the St. Louis Blues for a 4th round pick
