Toronto Maple Leafs: Three Players the Leafs Should Target in Trades

Jun 13, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; NHL commissioner Gary Bettman (left) shakes hands with Los Angeles Kings right wing Dustin Brown (23) during the presentation of the Stanley Cup after defeating the New York Rangers game five of the 2014 Stanley Cup Final at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Dustin Brown – LW/RW – Los Angeles Kings

Sure, it’s hard to picture the Cup Champion Kings dealing away their captain. And maybe they wouldn’t.

But, it’s important to keep his 8-year, $5.8 mil/yr contract in mind. That’s big.

And his measly 15 goals/27 points last year. That’s small.

And accusations that he’s lost a step, especially after having his ice time cut with Team USA at the Olympics.

Jun 13, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Kings right wing Dustin Brown (23) hoists the Stanley Cup after defeating the New York Rangers in double overtime in game five of the 2014 Stanley Cup Final at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

Also, Brown’s been no stranger to trade rumours in the past.

Still, a little hard to imagine, I know. Especially because of the advanced stats. Last season, Dustin Brown registered the 22nd best Corsi% in the NHL at 57.7%. That astounding figure would play well on any team.

Brown’s WOWY stats also reveal a skater who improves his linemates. Virtually every Kings skater experience a bump in possession stats when skating with Brown while Brown’s numbers didn’t fluctuate from teammate to teammate.

If the LA Kings decide that their Stanley Cup window is closing and Brown becomes available again, the Toronto Maple Leafs would be wise to take on his contract.

Leafs Suitability Grade: A-

Check the Brown highlights here: