LEAFS GET BECK FROM THE PREDS FOR DEVANE
The Toronto Maple Leafs acquired winger Taylor Beck from the Nashville Predators for winger Jamie Devane.
What does it give the Toronto Maple Leafs
This is a classic example of the culture change ramping up in Toronto. Beck was chosen in the same 2009 NHL Draft as Devane (just two picks later in the third round), but is a notably different type of player than Devane: he brings some skill and scoring potential to the table. Beck has proven himself as a scorer in the AHL and could blossom with the Leafs (especially if he is reunited with junior teammate Peter Holland).
What does it give the Nashville Predators
In Devane, the Predators add a massive depth forward who can stick up for his teammates. Nashville didn't have a designated pugilist last season, so Devane provides potential added toughness to the team's lower lines. Devane has also showed some solid scoring ability in the junior ranks, so he has a chance to play for Nashville in '15-16. Plus, Beck was a restricted free agent (so the cost-conscious Preds avoided negotiating a new deal with him).
Fantasy impact
Beck should get a big boost in opportunity (and thereby in fantasy sleeper appeal) with this move to Toronto, since he has less competition for minutes on the Leafs than he had with the Predators. He may compete confidently for a third-line role. Now with Nashville, Devane is only fantasy-relevant in leagues that put an emphasis on penalty minutes.
