The Toronto Maple Leafs need to be careful.
The Toronto Maple Leafs already traded for Ilya Lyubushkin, a player originally included in this article!
This trade deadline has all of the warning signs to be very concerning. Looking at most trade boards, many of the top candidates are seemingly overrated and the reported asking prices are more inflated than our monthly grocery bills.
Former NHL GM Brian Burke always said that team’s make their biggest mistakes around the trade deadline and this year looks to be no exception. Although it’s an exciting time for fans, NHL war rooms seem desperate to find any way they can upgrade their team as the playoff races tighten.
So far this year, some of the bigger names are already off the board with both Elias Lindholm and Nikita Zadorov being nabbed up by the Vancouver Canucks. These trades saw the surprisingly surging Canucks give up Andrei Kuzmenko, Joni Jurmo, Hunter Brzustewicz, a 2024 first round pick, a conditional 2024 fourth round pick, a conditional 2024 fifth round pick, and a 2026 third round pick. In total that is a roster player, two prospects, and up to four picks for two rentals.
There is no denying that these are impactful moves for the Canucks but it is a high price to pay nonetheless.
The other big deal involves two Canadian teams as well. The Montreal Canadiens dealt Sean Monahan to the Winnipeg Jets for a 2024 first round pick and a conditional 2027 third round pick. This is again another high price to pay for a player who’s best years seem to be behind him. These While Dallas acquired Chris Tanev, a player the Leafs were quite interested in.
So, although the Leafs shouldn’t stand pat as they do have needs for upgrades throughout their lineup, there are many players currently rumoured to be on the block that they should steer clear of.