Toronto Maple Leafs trade rumors: Insider claims team may not "go after top names" amid 2C hunt

By Nestor Quixtan

Modified Dec 20, 2024 03:27 GMT

Follow Us

Share

0 Discuss

The Toronto Maple Leafs are unlikely to make a big splash at the trade deadline, as per insider David Pagnotta. On The Latest on Dec, 19, Pagnotta discussed about the Maple Leafs' search for a 2C.

Pagnotta said that the Leafs are looking for a second-line center. However, cap space is a consideration, meaning the Leafs will be avoiding top names who command a higher cap hit. He said:

“The Maple Leafs are in the market for a second-line center but are keeping their cap space in mind. They may not go after the top names but are exploring affordable options.”

By “affordable,” Pagnotta refers to players who may be within the Leafs’ current cap limitations. PuckPedia projects the Leafs as having a little over $660K in available cap space. As such, any deal involving a potential 2C would likely require moving another contract out to clear room.

As Pagnotta noted, if the Leafs cannot find an affordable option at 2C, the club has a backup plan:

“If they can’t find the right 2C, they’ll likely stick with John Tavares at center and add a left winger who can score, play physical, and be defensively responsible alongside Tavares and William Nylander.”

It seems as though the Leafs would most likely have better luck finding a winger at a cheaper price point than a center. It remains to be seen what sort of options are available for GM Brad Treliving to consider.

---

Toronto Maple Leafs "fleshing out" centers

Renowned insider Elliotte Friedman echoed Pagnotta’s comments regarding the Toronto Maple Leafs’ search for a second-line center. In the Dec. 18 edition of Friedman’s 32 Thought column, he said:

“Toronto continues fleshing out centres, too. Tavares is still very good at taking draws, but moving him to left wing during play adds much-needed offence to that side.”

Indeed, the idea of moving John Tavares over to the wing has been floating out there for some time. However, the Leafs are yet to find a solid center to replace Tavares.

Last season, the Toronto Maple Leafs added Ryan O’Reilly at the trade deadline. However, O’Reilly was hampered by injuries, limiting his action down the stretch. He was solid during the postseason but wasn't as significant as the club would have hoped for.

This time, the club is looking to add someone who could significantly impact the team. Ideally, the center would allow Tavares to move to the wing, much like the Tampa Bay Lightning did with Steven Stamkos a few seasons ago.

However, given the Toronto Maple Leafs’ cap limitations, it might be challenging to find the right fit. The overall picture should become clearer as the trade deadline approaches.