Joined: Jul. 2019
Posts: 2,710
Likes: 594
Batherson is a clear upgrade and the kind of player that Tampa could use in the top 6 moving ahead. It's difficult for Tampa to say yes, not necessarily for the value in the trade, but because.of cap decisions that are coming(Stamkos, Duclair, does Hanifin come to Tampa or do they upgrade the defense with another ufa). There's no doubt Batherson is a much better player than Paul and on a good contract for the next couple of seasons, and JBB.has shown no problem moving picks before to get the player he wants. If Tampa did, then one of Stamkos or Duclair would definitely be out, and more than likely Hanifin as well unless Tampa made another move such as trading either Cernak or Cirelli. It's not impossible, but if Duclair wants to stay at a reasonable price, I'm guessing Tampa keeps Paul, Duclair, and the picks over Batherson.