The Toronto Maple Leafs can approach the NHL Trade Deadline in many different ways.
With 77 points, the Toronto Maple Leafs are all but locked into a playoff spot. They have a 22 point lead on the next highest ranked Atlantic Division team, which means that they will almost surely (barring the biggest collapse in NHL history, coupled with Florida going on one of the most unexpected winning streaks of all time) get one of the three divisional playoff seeds.
Because the Leafs are behind the Lightning and Bruins and because those teams have games in hand, it’s unlikely the Leafs will finish anywhere other than third. Toronto opening on the road against the Bruins is the most likely scenario, though it’s not impossible Boston could catch Tampa.
Because the Leafs are guaranteed a playoff spot, many people think they should buy. After all, in the NHL if you just make the playoffs, there’s a good chance you could go all the way.
Because the Leafs are a young team who hasn’t quite hit ‘contender’ status (in some people’s opinions) many people think the Leafs should hold tight, not sell off any assets and be content to gain another year of playoff experience for their young team.
Then there is option three: tinker mildly, but don’t get too crazy.
Don’t forget about a fourth option: Selling off all the UFAs.
Which way will the Leafs go? what is going to happen? We’ve got you covered. In place of our weekly Roundtable (be sure to check out our recent ‘most likely to get traded’ piece) we’ve put together a post dedicated to the Leafs Trade Deadline approach.
Enjoy Responsibly!