Toronto Maple Leafs: Trades Alone Will Not Fix Team

When Trades Do Not Work Out

Just because a team makes a blockbuster trade, it does not mean they instantly become favourites to win the Stanley Cup. In most cases it actually has not always worked out for teams that make that last effort to put themselves over the top in the hope of going far in the playoffs.

Apr 23, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; St. Louis Blues goalie

(39) covers the puck against the Chicago Blackhawks during the second period in game four of the first round of the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

Take the St. Louis Blues for example. Last season they acquired Ryan Miller and Steve Ott in a trade where they sent away Jaroslav Halak and Chris Stewart, a first and third round pick. They also traded for Jay Bouwnmeester the season prior. How did that work out for them? Just because a team is active on the trade market, it does not mean they will be more successful.

April 27, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins right wing

(12) and left wing

(10) take the ice against the Carolina Hurricanes before the game at the CONSOL Energy Center. The Pittsburgh Penguins won 8-3. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Here is another example. In 2013, the Pittsburgh Penguins traded for Jarome Iginla, Brenden Morrow, Jussi Jokinen and Douglas Murray in what made the Penguins look like a powerhouse team.  They ended up getting swept by the Boston Bruins.

Just because a team makes a trade to acquire some big names, it does not always work out for the team that makes the trade – especially when they are done mid-season at the trade deadline This is something the Leafs will have to consider in the future when they feel the urge to make an upgrade at the trade deadline. Sometimes it is best to not make a deal that could set your franchise back.