Lets Go Blues
Joined: Jun. 2016
Posts: 6,788
Likes: 4,341
I think there are times when the defensive inefficiencies appear to be rooted in a lack of physical, net-front play but could actually be resolved by getting cleaner exits and better transition play. So I don't mind adding Leddy to see if he can provide a boost in that regard.
But it feels like the Blues got Yzerman'd into giving up Sunny instead of Scandella, all things considered. The 2nd rounder on top of two solid players hurts. Almost makes me wonder if the deal was done but then nixed by Scandella's NTC and Army panicked and swapped in Sunny. It wasn't long ago that Sunny was regarded like a Lehkonen or Nichushkin, a two-way guy you can play anywhere in the lineup and get results from his energy/defense. As soon as he's fully recovered from his surgery I'd expect him to return to that level of player.
So overall, I think there are some positives but it's an L for the Blues. Especially if they give any sort of extension to Leddy. The best thing to come from the trade might be some more cap flexibility heading into the offseason. Could be key in keeping Husso or Perron, for example. But for right now, the team addressed the defense and should have some flexibility in the offseason. Just wish they didn't call Stevie Y to make it happen.