TORONTO TRADES FOR G CAMPBELL
The Toronto Maple Leafs acquired goaltender Jack Campbell and winger Kyle Clifford from the Los Angeles Kings for winger Trevor Moore, a third-round draft pick in 2020 and a conditional third-round draft pick in 2021.
What does it give the Toronto Maple Leafs
Toronto had no choice but to make a move for a goaltender at this time, since starter Frederik Andersen is currently injured and backup Michael Hutchinson has struggled at the NHL level this season. Enter Campbell, 28, who has played well for the Kings this season despite the team's losing ways. Campbell will take over No. 1 netminder duties for as long as Andersen remains sidelined. The Maple Leafs also acquired much-needed grit with Clifford. The latter also has Stanley Cup championship pedigree, which should help the Leafs in their quest to make the playoffs this spring.
What does it give the Los Angeles Kings
While it is a little bit surprising that the Kings decided to trade Campbell (and not veteran Jonathan Quick), the former was far easier to move at this time (Campbell has a cap hit of just $675,000 this season, and then $1.65 million through 2021-22). LA receives Moore, a solid depth winger who might receive more opportunities with the Kings, a third-round pick in '20 (originally belonging to Columbus) and a third in '21 from Toronto (that may become a second-round pick if the Leafs make the playoffs this season and Campbell wins six regular-season games for them, or if Clifford re-signs with Toronto.
Fantasy impact
Both Campbell and Moore could benefit greatly from this trade. In Campbell's case, it will likely be a short-term win but a long-range loss from a fantasy perspective (as he will become a backup once again as soon as Andersen returns from injury). Moore is a fantasy dark horse who might see a little bit of top-six winger action down the stretch for LA. Keep an eye on him.
Player focus
Los Angeles Kings
a conditional third-round draft pick in 2021
a third-round draft pick in 2020