As the March 21st NHL trade deadline gets closer, the trade rumors surrounding teams such as the Toronto Maple Leafs begin to heat up. This past week there seemed to be a new rumor every day.
Some rumors have credibility behind them, while others are just mere speculation. For instance, a team might start sending more than one scout to watch a few games in a row of one particular team. Although a team might be interested in a player doesn’t mean a trade will happen.
When two teams scout each other’s games regularly, speculation will grow that the two teams involved are getting closer to a deal. It could be accurate, but it still doesn’t mean a deal will happen. If a trade doesn’t happen by the trade deadline, the two teams might revisit the trade deal in the off-season.
It is no secret that the Toronto Maple Leafs could use some depth at both the defense and forward positions. With just over two weeks until the trade deadline, it will be interesting to see what Toronto GM Kyle Dubas can do between now and then.
One thing that helps is having Jake Muzzin on LTIR. It gives Dubas more salary cap space than he thought he would have. Hopefully, he will use it wisely and find the right upgrade(s) for this Maple Leafs team. A player or two that addresses the team’s needs. Dubas needs to get a player that can help them find playoff success. He can not afford to have this team not make it to the second round.