No. 3: Alex Nedeljkovic
Proposing that Kyle Dubas might consider making a trade with the Leafs might seem far-fetched, and suggesting two Pittsburgh Penguins goalies for consideration may sound even more outlandish. However, it's worth exploring this possibility.
Despite any apparent discord between Dubas and the Leafs front office, the team still boasts valuable trade assets, and ultimately, Dubas will prioritize what's best for the organization.
Critics may question Nedeljkovic's limited playoff experience, but it's worth noting his past success, notably leading the Charlotte Checkers to a Calder Cup victory in 2019. While this achievement occurred in the American Hockey League, the pressure of big games undoubtedly builds character.
Although Nedeljkovic only has 123 NHL games under his belt, his Calder Cup pedigree stands out, particularly when compared to other goaltenders like Ilya Samsonov or Joseph Woll.
In the right environment, Nedeljkovic has the potential to thrive as a starting NHL goalie. His previous stint with the struggling Detroit Red Wings may not fully reflect his capabilities. Given the opportunity on a more competitive team, such as the Toronto Maple Leafs, Nedeljkovic's statistics could see significant improvement. At a modest $1.5 million salary, acquiring Nedeljkovic presents an attractive option, offering a better alternative to Martin Jones.
While it's unlikely that such a trade will materialize under Dubas' management, it wouldn't be surprising if the Leafs expressed interest in Nedeljkovic's services come the offseason, especially if he chooses to explore free agency.