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James Van Riemsdyk to Leafs: Toronto Pulls off Blockbuster Post-Draft Deal

Brad LeClairJun 23, 2012

In some breaking news, the Leafs have traded Luke Schenn for forward James Van Riemsdyk.

The move doesn't come as any surprise as the Leafs drafted two stud defenceman with their first two picks in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.

Also, the Leafs' defensive depth meant they had some trade pieces, the biggest of which was likely Luke Schenn.

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Schenn struggled terribly last year with the puck and was often found giving the puck away on numerous occasions.

However, his defensive play and hard-hitting ways will never be forgotten in Toronto. His ability to block shots and hit the right player at the right time is going to be something the Leafs will miss.

In Van Riemsdyk, the Leafs get a young power forward, something they sorely needed in their top six.

In an injury-shortened season, Van Riemsdyk scored 11 goals and added 13 assists in 43 games. In seven playoff games, he added a goal and an assist to his totals.

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"We are really excited by the parts of the game that James will bring to the Leafs," said Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke in a statement. "He will provide speed, size, and finesse to our top two lines and we know that he fits those needs that we have wanted to address for some time. We thank Luke for his tremendous on and off ice contributions to our organization. He's a true professional and we wish him the very best in Philadelphia."

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The Leafs now head into the offseason with a plethora of young defensive talents and some strong young forwards, but are still searching for a No. 1 goalie.

With Schenn meeting up with brother Brayden in Philadelphia, this is the second deal in as many days that sees a pair of brothers reunited. The first brotherly love deal saw Jordan Staal shipped to the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for Brandon Sutter, Brian Dumoulin, and the Canes' first-round selection in 2012 (Derrick Pouliot) to play with his brother, Eric.

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