As the NHL 2024 trade deadline looms less than a week away, the Toronto Maple Leafs are primed to capitalize on this opportunity to fill crucial positions in their lineup. Brad Treliving, the General Manager of the Maple Leafs, appears to have his eyes set on several potential player packages to bolster the team's roster ahead of the playoffs.
The Arizona Coyotes, currently amidst a rebuilding phase, present a promising opportunity for Toronto to enhance their roster. With two players on the Coyotes—defenseman Matt Dumba and forward Nick Bjugstad—set to become free agents after this season, the Maple Leafs could benefit significantly from their services.
Filling the Gaps in Defense and Offense
On the defensive front, Matt Dumba stands out as a versatile right-handed defenseman known for his physical gameplay. The Maple Leafs have a glaring need for more depth on their blue line, and Dumba’s acquisition could address this issue effectively. His addition would also provide Toronto with the flexibility to consider trading players like Jake Muzzin or Travis Dermott, who have been burdened by hefty contracts and uncertain futures within the team.
In terms of offensive reinforcements, Nick Bjugstad could play a crucial role. As an experienced bottom-six forward, Bjugstad would significantly enhance Toronto's depth scoring. Given the current injuries plaguing the Maple Leafs' forward group, Bjugstad's offensive skills and defensive prowess would be a welcome addition to the team.
Securing these players from Arizona might not necessitate a hefty investment, given the Coyotes' intent to offload assets at the deadline in exchange for draft picks and young talent. This scenario places Toronto in an advantageous position to strengthen their lineup without sacrificing significant future assets.
Scouring the Market for Additional Assets
The playoff contenders keen on augmenting their forward lines before the trade deadline include notable teams such as the Knights, Oilers, New York Rangers, Carolina Hurricanes, Florida Panthers, and Colorado Avalanche. The Boston Bruins might also be exploring options to a lesser extent. However, the Maple Leafs are likely to be in the mix for acquiring a depth forward to fortify their offensive lineup.
The Montreal Canadiens are reportedly contemplating a significant roster overhaul, with defenseman David Savard and center Sean Monahan emerging as potential trade targets. Acquiring this duo could offer the Maple Leafs an opportunity to address their needs both on the blueline and at center ice.
David Savard, with his reliable defensive capabilities, could complement Toronto's existing defense lineup, offering a solid top-four option. This move could provide Toronto the chance to reconsider the roles of Travis Dermott or TJ Brodie, who have faced uncertainty regarding their future with the team.
On the other hand, Sean Monahan could solve the Maple Leafs’ depth issues at the center position. With John Tavares and Auston Matthews leading the pack, adding Monahan would ensure stability and a heightened scoring capacity from the third-line center spot.
However, acquiring Savard and Monahan may come at a steeper price due to Monahan's extensive contract and Montreal's expectation for valuable assets in return.
Exploring Alternatives
Matt Roy of the Los Angeles Kings has also caught the attention of the Toronto Maple Leafs. His pending free agency status, combined with a reasonable contract, makes him an attractive option for the Leafs seeking short-term reinforcement on the blue line without committing long-term.
Roy’s potential acquisition could prompt Toronto to evaluate their roster and consider trades involving current defensemen like Jake Muzzin, Travis Dermott, and TJ Brodie. This move would aim to secure younger, more cost-effective defensive options. The Kings’ current cap situation might force them to part ways with Roy before the deadline, offering Toronto another route to bolster their defense.
Although Seattle seems hesitant to trade Adam Larsson, his potential impact on the Maple Leafs’ roster merits discussion. Acquiring Larsson would fortify Toronto’s defense, offering a significant boost in their pursuit of a solid top-four defenseman. Additionally, Pierre-Edouard Bellemare from Seattle could enhance the team’s depth scoring and defensive cover, particularly in the fourth-line center position. However, Seattle’s apparent reluctance to part ways with Larsson puts this option in doubt, leaving Toronto to explore other avenues.
As quoted by Pierre LeBrun, the competitive landscape for acquiring forwards before the trade deadline is heated, with several playoff contenders, including the Maple Leafs, eager to secure depth forwards. This dynamic marketplace sets the stage for an intriguing trade deadline, with Toronto actively seeking opportunities to reinforce their squad for a deep playoff run.