The NHL trade deadline isn’t until February 29th. The Avalanche made a small trade this past weekend. They dealt forward Colin Smith and a 4th round pick to the Toronto Maple Leafs for Shawn Matthias. This was in hopes of boosting Colorado’s offense. What are they really getting in Shawn Matthias?
Matthias has played in the NHL for 8 years, suiting up for three teams. Those are the Florida Panthers, Vancouver Canucks, and Toronto Maple Leafs. In his eight year career he has a total of 75 goals and 73 assists for a total of 148 points. This season he has six goals and added 11 assists. He isn’t a huge scorer but should still center the third or fourth line. When he is out on the ice Matthias could see plenty of playing time. If he scores or sets up his teammates for goals, Roy might give him more minutes. According to ESPN, Maple Leafs General Manager Lou Lamoriello said, “An exceptional pro. He comes to work every day. He leaves everything on the ice. He’s committed. I think he’s going to be a decided asset to the role that Colorado is asking him to play.”
This trade will provide a little more offense for the Avalanche which they could use. It could be a tryout for Matthias to prove he should stay with the team. His contract expires at the end of the year. If he plays well and the Avalanche go to the playoffs, he could earn a contract extension.
Colorado didn’t give up a lot in this trade. A fourth round pick could be a prospect who could possibly play in the NHL in the next three or four years. Colin Smith didn’t even appear for Colorado this year and only played in one game back in the 2014-2015 season. The Maple Leafs received a player who may not even see the NHL this year. The 4th round pick is key for them to rebuild for next season.
What do you think of the trade Colorado made this past weekend?
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