Another important point that I believe illustrates further Dubas development as a GM, he made moves early knowing (as many of us do) that deadline deals are often more costly. if the Leafs fail this playoff it might not save his job, but he's been around the NHL block enough to know how it works now and realizes "better to cut bait earlier and search for gems.
He did this with this trade and also Malgin.
He may not get all he wants as deadline deals are tricky and more expensive, that's the nature of all sports where with buyers/sellers and bargains never the twain shall meet. However, in the interim depth on D is invaluable and making hockey trades where viable is better than waiting and making more complicated trades
It's also far easier to slot in a younger forward and play him in advantageous spots than it is to put in a green D Man who will be exploited by the opposition. Whether it's Timmins, Benn or another, they will play a key role in this seasons outcome.