No. 3: Scott Laughton
Is it just me or has Scott Laughton been rumored to join the Leafs for the past decade? I can't think of a player who I've seen more in trade rumors than Laughton during the Auston Matthews Era, because he kind of fits exactly what the Leafs could use.
Not only is Laughton a consistent third-line centre, but the biggest reason people point to him as a trade option is because he's from Oakville, ON. As a local kid and someone who cheered for the Leafs growing up, it always helps spark rumors that he'd actually join.
I'd be happy with Laughton joining the team, but is he really any different than someone like Alex Kerfoot over the years? Their stats kind of fit the same and their contract's have always been similar, so I feel like you'd just be getting another Kerfoot. I'm not neccesarily against that, but if you're going to make a splash, make one that can be front-page news.
No. 4: Brock Nelson
Speaking of front-page news, acquiring Brock Nelson would be that type of move. Since he plays for the NY Islanders, I don't think he gets as appreciated as he is, but he's a special player and someone who would excel as the 3C, or even 2C, with Tavares moving to the wing or down.
When Tavares left the Islanders, Nelson kind of jumped ahead as the team's best centre and he was not only someone who excelled in the regular season, but in the playoffs as well. In 78 career playoff games, Nelson has 50 points, including 27 goals which is very impressive.
Not only that, but Nelson has eight 20-goal seasons, including two 30-goal seasons and is on pace for another 20-goal season. This would be a massive piece for the Leafs to acquire but they do have the luxury of the Islanders not being any good and Nelson being on the last year of his $6M AAV deal.
If the Islanders are looking to part ways with Nelson and get younger, Toronto should be willing to pay up for Nelson, who can bring an immediate offensive boost, as well as some neccesarily size.