As the NHL 2024 trade deadline rapidly approaches, the Toronto Maple Leafs are conspicuously active in the trade rumor mill, eyeing strategic moves to bolster their roster for a robust playoff push. Brad Treliving, the team’s general manager, appears to be weighing several player options to fortify positions of need, with the Arizona Coyotes' rebuild status presenting a potentially lucrative opportunity for Toronto.
Arizona Coyotes' Offerings
The contracts of defenseman Matt Dumba and forward Nick Bjugstad are set to expire this offseason, making them attractive targets for the Maple Leafs. Dumba, known for his versatility and physical play on the blue line, could provide the much-needed depth Toronto seeks. His acquisition might also open the door for the Maple Leafs to explore trade possibilities for Jake Muzzin or Travis Dermott, whose future with the team is currently in a state of flux due to their hefty contracts.
On the forward front, Bjugstad could significantly enhance Toronto's bottom-six forward group. With the team currently grappling with injuries among its forwards, Bjugstad's offensive skills coupled with his defensive acumen could prove invaluable. Given the Coyotes' commitment to rebuilding their roster through accumulating draft picks and young prospects, securing these players from Arizona could be achieved without relinquishing significant assets.
Seeking Depth and Defensive Stability
Elsewhere in the league, several teams, including the Knights, Oilers, New York Rangers, Carolina Hurricanes, Florida Panthers, and Colorado Avalanche, are in the hunt for forward upgrades before the deadline. The Toronto Maple Leafs, while perhaps focusing on depth forwards, might also entertain a significant roster shake-up by eyeing trades with the Montreal Canadiens.
Defenseman David Savard and center Sean Monahan have emerged as potential trade targets from Montreal. Acquiring Savard would bolster Toronto's defensive lineup, offering a reliable right-handed option to pair with either Morgan Rielly or Jake Muzzin. This move could similarly allow the Maple Leafs the flexibility to consider trades involving Travis Dermott or TJ Brodie. Meanwhile, Monahan could address the center depth issue, providing a stable third-line center presence behind John Tavares and Auston Matthews. However, Montreal's high asking price for these players, particularly given Monahan's larger contract, could pose a challenge.
Exploring Other Avenues
The Maple Leafs have also shown interest in Matt Roy from the Los Angeles Kings to strengthen their defensive corps. Roy’s impending free agency and reasonable contract make him an appealing short-term addition without committing to a substantial long-term financial obligation. This situation might force the Maple Leafs to evaluate potential trade options involving their current top right-handed defensemen.
Furthermore, Toronto could consider avenues less likely to come to fruition, such as a trade with the Seattle Kraken for Adam Larsson. Despite Seattle's apparent reluctance to part with Larsson, his acquisition would offer the Maple Leafs a valuable top-four defenseman. Additionally, Pierre-Edouard Bellemare from Seattle could provide depth and defensive prowess at the center position, although the feasibility of these trades remains uncertain due to Seattle's stance on Larsson.
Conclusion
Toronto's strategy as the trade deadline looms evidently revolves around enhancing both their defensive and offensive lines without significantly disrupting their core or future prospects. The potential acquisitions discussed, from Dumba and Bjugstad to Savard and Monahan, all reflect a targeted approach to address specific needs. As Pierre LeBrun insightfully notes, with several teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, actively seeking to bolster their rosters, the coming days leading up to the NHL 2024 trade deadline promise to be both hectic and transformative. Whether these potential trades come to pass will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the Maple Leafs' playoff aspirations and their overall team composition.