Toronto Maple Leafs acquire James van Riemsdyk from Philadelphia Flyers for Luke Schenn -NHL Update
In another blockbuster offseason trade, Toronto Maple Leafs acquired James van Riemsdyk from the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for Luke Schenn on Saturday, June 23, 2012, which certainly came as a surprise as the latter team showed no intentions of making
a deal for the player when rumours emerged earlier.
Reports rose after the 2012 National Hockey League (NHL) Stanley Cup Finals came to an end that Philadelphia Flyers’ James van Riemsdyk would be traded in the upcoming days, but both the team and player were in complete denial.
Now, with the deal done, it gives proof to the fact that everything is not as it seems on the outside.
"Obviously it was something in the wintertime that [Leafs GM] Brian [Burke] and I discussed in theory, and then I think we both decided to just table it," Flyers’ general manager, Paul Holmgren, said. "It came up again yesterday and we talked about it. I
believe it's a good trade for both teams. It certainly fills a need for us and I think it fills a need for Brian's team as well in terms of what they're looking to do."
For Luke Schenn, one of the most positive aspects of this deal is that he will be joining his younger brother, Brayden Schenn, who is coming out of his rookie season with the Flyers. Something the Flyers believe will be beneficial to the youngster.
"I know they're very close, so I've got to believe it will be a positive thing for Brayden," Flyers’ general manager, Holmgren, said.
Luke Schenn is a former fifth overall pick during round-one of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft by Toronto Maple Leafs and has successfully completed his fourth straight season with the club. In 310 games played so far, the defenseman has 75 points (14 goals, 61
assists) and has four more seasons to play on his five-year, $18 million contract.
James van Riemsdyk on the other hand, is a second overall pick of 2007 and has 196 games played with 99 points (47 goals, 52 assists) as a left winger for three seasons with Philadelphia.
Riemsdyk is secure till the 2017-2018 regular season comes to an end with a six-year, $25.5 million contract.
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