The main offseason focus for the Maple Leafs revolved around potentially breaking up the core, particularly considering moving on from Mitch Marner and, to a lesser extent, John Tavares, despite their no-movement clauses.
However, the team’s management appears inclined to retain most of the current roster, though other positions are still up for grabs.
Notable draft picks Easton Cowan and Fraser Minten, who are coming off strong seasons with their junior teams, will be aiming to secure spots on the roster.
Veteran players will be hoping to hold off the challenge from these young prospects.
With a new head coach in Craig Berube and significant changes to the defense, position battles and lineup decisions will be a priority during the preseason. If new faces make the team, which players might be traded?
The Toronto Maple Leafs’ Most Likely Trade Candidates
Restricted free agent Nick Robertson has already expressed his desire for a change of scenery. The offensive winger sees the Maple Leafs’ depth at forward as a barrier to his development.
Aside from trading a star player, Robertson is the Leafs’ most valuable trade asset. His offensive potential, shooting ability, and speed make him highly appealing.
Given his desire to leave, Robertson is the most obvious trade candidate, but GM Brad Treliving and the Maple Leafs should work to smooth things over and convince Robertson to start fresh with Berube.
This situation could turn into a standoff. Would Robertson be willing to sit out long-term if necessary? Will Treliving and the Leafs grow tired of waiting and continually addressing questions about Robertson’s status?
The longer Robertson sits out, the more the Leafs lose leverage in trade negotiations. This could get messy, making Robertson the team’s top trade candidate.
Other Potential Trade Candidates
Fourth-line center David Kampf earns $2.4 million for his role in killing penalties, taking face-offs, and contributing minimally on offense. This salary is too high for his role.
Kampf is an expensive insurance policy. If the Leafs can secure a solid third-line center and use Pontus Holmberg in Kampf’s spot, it would be wise for the Leafs to move on.
Timothy Liljegren, who signed a two-year extension, has a very tradeable contract. Entering his fourth full year on the blue line, this feels like a make-or-break season for him to establish himself as a top-four defender.
The addition of fellow Swede Oliver Ekman-Larsson as a potential defensive partner and a fresh start under Berube make this a critical period for Liljegren. If he doesn’t show consistency and reliability in the first half of the season, the Leafs should consider trading him for another defender or a forward who can bolster the bottom six.
The Toronto Maple Leafs may have chosen to keep their star players for another season, but there are still intriguing moves that could be made.
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