1-2 punch?

With draft day a week away, there seems to be something going on in leaf land that is going to significantly change the leafs for years to come. I have different opinions on getting Luongo or Nash. I have a better solution for Burke and company to turn this team into a contender for years to come. These two players are going to be Alex Galchenyuk and Nail Yakupov. Trading up with both Edmonton and Columbus isn't too crazy of a thought either. So lets talk about the trade scenarios.


First player we have to get out of the way is Jake Gardiner. Now before there is any hate just hear me out. Edmonton is looking for a stud d-man and not another all star forward which would force them to trade one of their forwards in the long run for defence anyways. Gardiner has the make up to become a top pairing offensive d-man being able to play 25 minutes a game.

To Edmonton:
Jake Gardiner


To Toronto:
1st Overall Pick

Trading up with Columbus is likely because they can still get Ryan Murray at 5th overall to solidify their Defence for years to come pairing him with Jack Johnson. If it isn't James Reimer and Someone like Kadri then that would be the price that I would still pay for the second over all pick to secure us getting the two Russians.

To Columbus:
5th Overall pick
James Reimer/ Nazem Kadri

To Toronto:
2nd Overall Pick

The bottom line is the Leafs and Burke have the chance to let these two future superstars lead the leafs with Phil Kessel. Imagine building a core around a top six with Kessel, Galchenyuk, Yakupov, Lupul, Grabovski and one of Kadri, Kulemin, Frattin, Colborne or Even a big physical guy like Tyler Biggs.