Auston Matthews
The old saying goes, “never say never”. With Auston Matthews, we can with incredible certainty say there is no chance he is moved this season.
The Maple Leafs took a deep sigh of relief when Matthews escaped what might have become a worrisome wrist injury.
They need him in the lineup. He’s not just one of the most valuable players on the team, but in the league. His star shines so brightly that there is no prospect that the Leafs covet over the superstar that they drafted and have helped make the face of the team.
Chances of being dealt prior to the trade deadline: 0%
Cody Ceci
Cody Ceci is in the complete opposite position as Matthews. Ceci is getting paid $4.5 million for this season. It’s more than a third-pairing defenseman should be earning. Without Ceci providing an overly effective defensive game, it would make the most sense for Toronto to trade him.
Any transaction that includes Ceci is certain to have other Maple Leafs included as well. That’s because on his own, Ceci doesn’t carry much value. The Leafs can survive with him on their blueline, but shipping him out would give them cap relief, something they could use for the acquisition of a new player.
If the Leafs make a deal, anticipate seeing Ceci’s name attached.
Chances of being dealt prior to the trade deadline: 75%
Dmytro Timashov
Dmytro Timashov has had his name thrown out often by fans on social media as a piece included in potential trades. This appears to be done because he plays an expendable role that can easily be replaced with the depth that exists on the Marlies. Plus, many overvalue the players on the teams they root for.
Timashov might be traded, but just like Ceci, he isn’t a highly sought after player. He has been considered more valuable for his hitting than scoring. Oddly, many of the same people calling for Timashov to be moved also ask for more grit on the Leafs.
The best argument for shipping out Timashov would be that his entry-level contract expires at season’s end, making him a restricted free agent. Timashov managed to get into Saturday’s game against the Ottawa Senators. He was trusted with 7:15 minutes of ice time where he delivered one check and had a shot on goal.
Chances of being dealt prior to the trade deadline: 16%