Mathieu Schneider 85 D 12 YR

[Colorado Avalanche]

I'd say a bit more being two overalls higher and having an extra year

[Winnipeg Jets]

looking at the numbers they could be pretty even. There are more 85+ forwards for sure but there are more forward positions to fill so the ratio may be closer than it seems. That being said I always see everyone value their D more (heh) in a trade but this could be a simple supply vs demand (less D available means higher prices than average).

That being said my best D in the playoffs was an 82 overall so maybe it is all a crapshoot. lol

[xx - Former Calgary Flames]

To me, an 85 forward weighs about the same as an 85 defenseman. Of course, to get a trade through, you have to overpay in your own perspective to get who you want.

But since I started scouting the lesser known names for the CHL, I've done less about looking at overall numbers and more looked at 'Okay, what does this guy do?'

Because at the end of the day, the overall rating reflects the offensive ability better than it does a defensive ability.

I'm gonna use a future prospect as an example, Ron Hainsey. He will most likely be no higher than an 81, from what I feel he might be. However, I know at his best, he will be an elite pick stopping defenseman that you want on the third pairing. So, if I were to trade him, I would want someone of that equal caliber back, so it might ask for a higher rated forward who can be just as reliable if not more.

It's always tough asking for opinions on trade values. Everyone has it different. Most instances, very different.

[Ottawa Senators]

Personally, I always valued D over forwards by one or two overalls, just cause there are fewer higher end D-men. An 85 F is a 2nd or 3rd liner for most, while an 85 D could be top pairing for like half the league, but is definitely at least top 4.

87 F for 85 D with similar years sounds about right.