The Matthews to LA talk got a bump from Nick Kypreos today. He threw out a trade package of Vilardi, Anderson, Byfield and a 1st.
Too much. All of Byfield, Vilardi, Anderson trending up. Byfield, despite the 3 goals, was plus 13, began using his size, played on line 1 and didn't look ut of place. Learned wing...lost 20+ lbs at start of season. After Kopi and Fiala, made more slick passes than any other forward.
It's too early to trade him - even for a superstar. If he's at 10 goals, 40 pts next year, I'd be worried. I think he's 50+ pts from this point and gains lbs and strength and see more big hits like the one on Hedman next yr. Then Vilardi busted 20 goals and was great on the PP and just getting started. 30 goals is not out of the question for him. Can play wing or center. 2 way play improved. Kempe best sniper on team...snipes 30+ feet and Vilardi may be next at 20+ feet out. Wicked, accurate shot.
Anderson was great, up until the McDavid hit. He's future A or C.
LHD is aready weak and needing a 2 LHD...so, would then need *1 LHD, 2 LHD?
SO MANY forward prospects are not panning out (so far and no one trending up so much) Turcotte, Fagemo, Thomas...and others below their hoped ceiling: Kupari, JAD.
So, trade the 2 best forward prospects since Kempe, #1 young LHD and yet another #1 pick? No thanks.
* and no cap to even be able to get a #1 and #2 LHD.