Blackhawks And Maple Leafs Strike A Deal

The Toronto Maple Leafs have traded Kurtis Gabriel to the Chicago Blackhawks and have received defenseman Chad Krys in return.

The Blackhawks have acquired forward Kurtis Gabriel from the Toronto Maple Leafs in exchange for defenseman Chad Krys. pic.twitter.com/B0Ls9BnLYd
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) December 9, 2021

Gabriel signed a one-year, $750,000 contract with the Maple Leafs this summer. Due to Toronto's depth on offense, the 28-year-old winger would be cut from the Leafs' NHL roster before the start of the regular season. In 13 games with the Toronto Marlies, he had a goal, an assist and a whopping 36 penalty minutes.

With this move to Chicago, Gabriel should have more chances to the play at the NHL level, as the Blackhawks have less depth up front. With that, there is currently a spot for the taking in their bottom-six, as Jujhar Khaira is currently out. Gabriel could give Chicago a new jolt with his toughness.

When looking at Krys, there's a good chance that he will solely be a depth defenseman for the Leafs. He should be a nice addition for the Marlies and he will be looking to take that next step from here. He had been with the Blackhawks since 2016, as he was taken by them with the 45th overall pick of that year's draft. In 64 games over four seasons with the Rockford IceHogs, he had two goals and 15 points. Eight of those games came from this season, where he recorded an assist.

Overall, this isn't a major move, but it's always cool to see two Original Six teams strike a deal.