Toronto Maple Leafs Rumors: P.A. Parenteau Accepts He’s Probably Gone
By Paul Taylor
Despite being at his most settled in three years, P.A. Parenteau realizes the Toronto Maple Leafs will likely move him before the NHL trade deadline.
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With the NHL trade deadline fast approaching, the Toronto Maple Leafs are busy weighing up their options. With 30th place at stake, any moves made will be to the long-term benefit of the organization.
In that respect, players such as P.A. Parenteau shouldn’t get too comfortable, despite being happy with playing in Toronto. Speaking to Chris Johnston of Sportsnet, Parenteau said: “It’s the best I’ve felt in the last three years for sure.
“I feel as good as my first year in Denver and my Islanders days. I’m really happy with how things are going personally this year.”
Ironically for the 2001 ninth round draft, it is this new-found peace and revival in his game, which will likely see him moved between now and February 29. With his offensive abilities and $1.5 million contact, Parenteau would be an excellent addition for any number of contending teams.
Fortunately for the 32-year old, with age comes the wisdom to accept the business side of professional sports: “I know it’s a possibility; I’m well aware of that and so is my family.”
Parenteau has had his fair share of adversity, since scoring a career-high 67 points during the 2011-12 season with the New York Islanders. This includes contending with injuries, being benched and ultimately falling out of favor with the Colorado Avalanche and then the Montreal Canadiens.
However, the Quebec native has impressed Mike Babcock, since arriving in Toronto. Speaking to Johnston, Babcock said: “(P.A.) decided he wanted his career back, we talked a lot about it and he had to get to work.
“He worked real hard … and he’s got reasonable numbers for the National Hockey League. He transports the puck, he runs our power play (and) he’s efficient for us.”
The best indication of Parenteau’s love for Toronto, comes when he’s asked if he would re-sign with the Leafs next season, even if he is traded: “Absolutely. That’s something I would definitely consider with the way they’ve treated me here and the way things went.”
The Leafs may be bottom of the standings, but there is genuine hope in Southern Ontario for the first time in quite a while. You can put this down to the impact of Babcock, something which helped Parenteau’s confidence: “You know when your coach wants you out there as a player, and that’s the way I’m feeling this year.
“Even before we had all of those injuries, I felt like I was a big part of the team…Obviously it’s a rebuild here for us this year – and things have been kind of rough lately – but I’m enjoying myself still.”
Next: Teams that should call the Leafs at the trade deadline
Do you think P.A. Parenteau will be traded between now and February 29? If so, what do you expect in return for him? Let us know in the comments section below.