Edited Feb. 24 at 7:02 p.m.
Quoting: NorthernLeafsFan05
Give Niemela 2 years and that's what he will be. People miscast him as being a small offensive defenseman, but that could not be further from the truth. His defensive game, IQ, edge work, and transition ability are all at an NHL level. I can't remember the last time the Leafs drafted a defenseman that was a legit 2 way threat like Niemela. He's a special talent and no one gives him his flowers.
Our window will not be closed in 2 years time. Injecting a guy like that into the lineup will be hugely beneficial. There are not many defenseman that I'm trading Niemela for.
Team dont got a big window and there is little to no guarantee he will be a good partner for Rielly
There be to many unknowns and gambles. Get someone actually established in the role who we know can play 20+ mins a night, kill penalties, move the puck, and drive offense, not a rookie who Keefe will have to shelter and who may get outmuscled for the puck over and over.
Look at the Muzzin trade. Yes Muzzin went through injuries at the end but Leafs traded Durzi and never looked back. Muzzin was such a good Dman and it sucks his career ended the way it did as hes a guy we could use rn.
Were in win now not wait and see. As lets say we bring him up and he dont work with Rielly then what?
Remember Liligren how many years did it take him to finally get to where he is. We cant just assume Niemela gonna come and immediately be a top pair guy here with Rielly or even top 4. Its to many ifs ands or buts rn.
If Rasmus Andersson is available and CGY asks for 1st + 3rd and Niemela done.