Rangers Walk Away From Nikolai Zherdev- Maple Leafs Interested?

With the news that New York Rangers general manager Glen Sather has exercised the right to refuse an arbitrators award to disgruntled winger Nikolai Zherdev just hours old, rumors are swirling that Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brian Burke is interested in signing the 24 year old.

Burke, who has spent a considerable amount of money re-building his defense, has been ridiculed by many Maple Leaf fans for not addressing the teams need for a top six forward. Could Zherdev be that guy?

At 6’2”, 203 pounds, Zherdev, who was drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the first round, fourth overall in the 2003 NHL entry draft, is regarded as one of the most skillful players in the NHL. Problem is, not unlike Ottawa Senators forward Alex Kovalev, Zherdev has the reputation for taking nights off and leaving much of his potential untapped.

To date, Zherdev has had a modest NHL career. His 23 goals as a member of the Rangers last season were the third highest of his career, while his 35 assists tied his career high.

With a total of 58 points last season Zherdev was the 73rd ranked scorer in the NHL. But is he worth the $3.9 Million the arbitrator awarded him?

Zherdev is fairly consistent, scoring 27 goals in 2005-2006, 26 goals in 2007-2008 and 23 goals in 2008-2009. Fact is, this is a very good player with a ton of upside, who is more than capable of being a 40 goal scorer in the not so distant future.

On the plus side, the Leafs have the cap space to add Zherdev’s contract and with a genuine need for another top six forward, Zherdev would address one the Leafs bigger needs without giving up anything in return.

Zherdev’s arbitrarily awarded contract is only for one season, so if things didn’t work out the Leafs could part ways with the talented forward quite easily. If Zherdev finds his way as a member of the Blue and White the Leafs might just sneak into the playoffs, which would make ownership, fans and management very happy.

On the downside, Burke spent the trade deadline and part of the summer ridding the Maple Leafs of players that he deemed to be underachievers. Zherdev’s compete level has been questioned before, so Burke needs to be sure that head coach Ron Wilson can motivate the young right winger.

Overall I think the rumors have merit and when analyzed closely there certainly seems to be a fit. Zherdev’s short term contract, huge upside and the Leafs need for another top six forward makes me believe that Burke may be given the green light to sign Zherdev.

Burke better act soon, there are sure to be other suitors, top six forwards are tough to come by.

Until next time,

Peace!