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LEAFS SWAP PICKS WITH DUCKS; SELECT BIGGS & PERCY

June 24, 2011, 9:13 PM ET [ Comments]
Mike Augello
Toronto Maple Leafs Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT
The Leafs traded the 30th pick in the first round, acquired from Boston in the Tomas Kaberle deal and their own 2nd rounder(39th overall) to the Anaheim Ducks for the 22nd overall selection.

With the pick, the Leafs selected Tyler Biggs of the US National Development Team.

TSN says of Biggs:

Perhaps the most rugged forward to ever come out of the US development program, Biggs impressed scouts throughout the season with his robust and pro-style game.

Strengths - Already built like a man, Biggs dominated his age group in terms of physical maturity and strength. Not afraid to drop the gloves or run over an opponent. Solid positional player, drives hard to the net, possesses a hard shot, strong character.

Weaknesses - Feet and hands are average, limited offensive upside, lacks creativity. Prone to taking bad penalties, will need more discipline. NHL Upside - Has been compared to Los Angeles Kings' forward Kyle Clifford. Should be a tough, intimidating second or third-line winger who will battle hard.

With the 25th pick, Toronto selected Mississauga defenseman Stuart Percy.

TSN says of Percy:

Second-year OHLer contributed 43 assists and a +63 plus/minus rating in 89 games and playing a key role both offensively and defensively on a Memorial Cup finalist.

Strengths - Smart, steady defender with solid puck-moving skills. Excellent poise and vision, rarely makes a glaring mistake. Good gap control and solid positionally. Reads the play well, exemplary work ethic and leadership qualities. Good vision and passing skills.

Weaknesses - Not physically punishing, foot speed and shot will need to improve as he adds some strength. Quickness and pivots are average, shot could be harder. NHL Upside - Solid NHL defender who can kill penalties and provide secondary power play duties.

*******

Eklund just posted on Twitter that a very dependable source is telling him that the Leafs are working on prying Evgeni Malkin out of Pittsburgh.

The package for Malkin would have to be huge.

What are your thoughts on what it could be??
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