3 things Toronto Maple Leafs must address in 2024 NHL Draft
The hockey landscape could change on Friday during the 2024 NHL Draft. As one of the most important moments of the hockey calendar, the draft is an opportunity for teams to land a potential future star. It is also an opportunity for teams to make considerable changes in the trade market.
One of the teams that fans and experts will be monitoring is the Toronto Maple Leafs. After another disappointing exit from the postseason, the Leafs are expected to have an active summer.
3 things the Toronto Maple Leafs must address in the 2024 NHL Draft
#1 - Mitch Marner's future
The future of superstar forward Mitch Marner is one of the biggest talking points for the Maple Leafs ahead of the 2024 draft. There have been rumors speculating that the Maple Leafs could look to trade Marner before the start of next season. Trading Marner during the NHL Draft could be an option for the club If Toronto believes that there is a game-changing prospect in this year's class.
#2 - Draft a talented winger
The Toronto Maple Leafs hold the 23rd overall pick in the draft, which should allow the team to find a solid option in the class. Although 23rd overall is not the greatest pick, there should be plenty of forwards worth targeting in that range, including Andrew Basha of the Medicine Hat Tigers.
#3 - Explore the defensive options on the trade market
The Maple Leafs are expected to pursue defensive upgrades in the summer. Although there are a number of interesting players hitting free agency, the front office should look to explore the trade market during the draft. The team could land an impactful defenseman with its first-round pick. If they could facilitate a deal, it could help the team avoid any bidding war on free agents.