Is Nazem Kadri on his way out with Nic Petan waiting on the wings ?

Photo courtesy of Mark Blinch, Getty Images

 

By Eduardo Harari

 

TORONTO. - It was not a move that shocked the hockey world but the acquisition of Nic Petan might be one that the Toronto Maple Leafs might benefit the most out of.

 

Nic is a 24 year old looking for a chance to showcase his skills. HIs AHL career showed a great potencial of success in the NHL.

 

With the recent performances of Nazem Kadri in the last 2 playoffs and his lack of control of his emotions put his team at a critical disadvantage during first round battles might just give Petan the opportunity he has been looking for.

 

Financially it makes sense for the Leafs, Kadri has 4.5 million remaining in his contract this season while Nic will make less than a million the next 2 season making the saving significant.

 

Photo courtesy of Maddie Meyer, Getty Images

 

Babcock finds himself in a difficult position finding ice time for Kadri on the third line as it is illogical to have 3 top centers on a power-play unit.

 

No one is saying its not an advantage to have top and skilled centres in the same line but the trade off in a placing Nic Petan in the 3rd line is that you would have more flexibility in the management of the team and being able to balance the playing time of your two top centres.

 

The other factor that could be argued is the age and stamina factor which goes to Petan 24 to Kadri 28.

 

Photo courtesy of Kevin Sousa, Getty Images

 

The other angle is keeping the combo of Matthews and Nylander together as they are recognized as one of the best in the NHL. Is Petan a viable option in the 3rd line considering the saving on time and money it would eliminate from Matthews and Tavares?

 

Its a matter of opinion as Nic has plenty of non developed talent ready to explode and for Toronto it would be an optimum use of the resources available. To look at the numbers might seem illogical as Petan has never had a true regular role in the NHL.

 

24 points in 113 games might seem absurd but most of those were in the 4th line. His potential will come out placing him in a line with a supporting cast.

 

And truly, is there a risk to attempt the experiment work? If it works its a plus and the situation is resolved, otherwise you go back to the drawing board and give someone else a chance, insert Nylander in the role or simply bring someone from outside.

 

For Dubas, the answer is at his reach, offer Kadri around as he is still a viable commodity at 28 and his contract is a good one.