The Carolina Hurricanes have traded long-time defenseman Tim Gleason to the Toronto Maple Leafs for puck-moving defenseman John-Michael Liles and Dennis Robertson.
Gleason, who was a healthy scratch in last night’s dramatic comeback victory against Montreal, waived the no-trade-clause that was implemented into his four year extension that he signed in January of 2012.
Tim Gleason has played for the Hurricanes since the 2006-07 season, and was a staple on the blue line for much of his career in Carolina. The gritty defenseman was the epitome of toughness during his career wearing the “Sightless Eye”, and he dropped the gloves with regularity to stand up for teammates. He played for team USA in 2010 and played big minutes when the Canes needed him most.
With the log jam of defenseman that the Canes currently have, and the constant struggles with the man advantage, it’s no surprise that Gleason is being moved for a puck-mover like Liles. Liles should be slotted in immediately and will help quarterback a non-existent powerplay.
The 33 year old Liles should help move the puck out of the defensive zone and give the Canes offense more fluidity. While the fan favorite Gleason’s grittiness will be missed, Liles brings an offensive presence to the ice that has been sorely missed all year.
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