Here is a comparison on current and former Toronto Maple Leaf players. Nikolai Kulemin is a 23 year old player that was drafted in the 2nd round (44th overall) in the 2006 NHL Draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs. While Lee Stempniak who is 27, and was drafted in the 5th round (148th overall) in the 2003 NHL Draft by the St. Louis Blues. The Leafs at that time (in 2008) traded up for Stempniak, by giving up forward Alex Steen and defenseman Carlo Colaiacovo. But later sold him short by sending Stempniak off to the Phoenix Coyotes (March 10th 2010) for prospect Matt Jones and a 4th and 7th 2010 draft pick. Kulemin’s and Stempniak’s contracts are somewhat close, as Kulemin is owed 2.35 million over the next two seasons before he becomes an RFA. While Stempniak has two more years at 1.9 million before he becomes a UFA.
Now looking at what these two players have done since the start of the 2009/10 season. Now also keep in mind that Stempniak has been shuffled around from the 3rd and 2nd lines, while Kulemin has be moved back and forth from playing 1st to 2nd line minutes. Kulemin as of February 21st 2011 he has played 137 games and recorded 77 points. While Stempniak as of February 21st 2011 he has played a total of 140 games and recorded 78 points. Now the younger Kulemin has obviously more value than the Stempniak’s of the world. But does this comparison show that Kulemin is play good or not good at all, when you compare him to this former Maple Leaf player? LET THE DEBATE BEGIN. Please send me your thoughts via twitter or facebook, here is where you can find out how to contact me. Contact Info
Original Story:
http://www.wafflesandleafs.com/201102...
