Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic,

What did others around the league think of the move? Just last week, I reached out to rival front-office executives, asking them what they would do at the deadline if they were in Dubas shoes. A few of them mentioned OReilly specifically as a target....

Front-office exec No. 3

Kind of goes against their (up-tempo) identity but guess they feel his intangibles are worth it. Faceoffs, grit, playoff experience.

They still dont have anyone to push back when other teams come after their top guys. Will be interesting to see how it plays out in the playoffs

Front-office exec No. 4

Obviously they feel their time is now and went all in. Makes sense given where their roster is, with Auston Matthews situation, etc. (Matthews is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent after next season.) Everyone knows they have to win a playoff round this year or changes will be made.

Theyve given up a lot of draft capital, but I understand the rationale. I also like the message it sends to the room.

Still dont love the goaltending, though.

Front-office exec No. 5

Its a really good move for them. They recognized their biggest need and prioritized filling it.

more ($) opinions

What an awful trade for TOR.

Guy is on the downtrend, has performed terribly this year and they gave up a 1st for someone who is on the wrong side of 30.

He's not a Krejci  or a Bergeron so he's not going to suddenly get better as he gets older.

homer Toronto media market loves this trade. National media from the US (trade grade B, Blues get B+ and A's)

me: laughing all the way

Team needs: Goaltending and stay-at-home d-man that can headman the puck

team trades for: 3rd line aging centre that will show playoff grit but isn't the player he once was.

Cap space: ZERO

They could have really used a stay at home D like Ollie Matta. Hope he stays on the Wings past the deadline.

Almost forgot to mention the most pressing issue Toronto will have:

1st round series against Tampa, 2nd round series against Boston