Just like clockwork, the rumors surrounding Colorado Avalanche defenseman John-Michael Liles pick up momentum every single trade deadline. This year is no exception.
With the acquisition of Erik Johnson from the St. Louis Blues, many clubs view Liles, 30, as available for the right price. Monday afternoon, Twitter was filled with false reports that Liles had been traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs -- a team that has been high on Liles' skillset for some time. Other sources have reported that Toronto has indeed asked about Liles, but deemed the cost too great.
Just this morning, Luke DeCock of the Raleigh News & Observer stated that the Carolina Hurricanes may be a possible destination for Liles.
Keep an eye on John-Michael Liles. Canes were extremely high on him at one point and he may be available after the Erik Johnson trade.
Luke DeCock
LukeDeCock
Liles is under contract through the 2011-2012 season at the reasonable price of $4.2 million. He is currently enjoying one of the best seasons of his career, and may never have higher value in a trade, especially given the market for defenseman this deadline. He would likely bring in a first round pick plus a talented under-25 forward at the very minimum.
At this point, it would be a surprise if Liles stayed with the Avalanche through the deadline on February 28.