Thursday, January 17, 2013
Meaning behind Lombardi deal
By Victoria Matiash
Forward Matthew Lombardi is no longer a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Maple Leafs have traded Lombardi to the Phoenix Coyotes for a fourth- or third-round draft pick. The Leafs would get a third-round selection if Lombardi re-signs with the Coyotes.
According to TSN's Darren Dreger, the move creates an opportunity for a younger player (Nazem Kadri?) to earn a permanent role with the club.
"... Toronto eats Lombardi's $500,000 signing bonus, plus some additional salary ... Leafs have talked about giving younger players a chance. Can't just say it ... have to do it. Moving Lombardi opens up a spot."
