This is part two of my four-part series on Toronto Maple Leafs trade targets around the NHL.
The Toronto Maple Leafs need to try and upgrade their roster before the NHL trade deadline. They have a few weaknesses that need fixing, but does Leafs general manager Brad Treliving have enough assets to make the necessary upgrades?
I think he does, but should he spend them on a rental or try to get a player with more term? I, for one, would rather see the Leafs spend a 1st round pick or a top prospect on a player with term.
As the NHL trade deadline approaches, the Leafs will have their name linked to every player available. Treliving's top priority should be to upgrade the Leafs defense.
That is the area where the Leafs need help the most. However, I wouldn't rule out the Leafs adding a depth forward or even a goaltender. It all depends on how confident Treliving is with this Leafs team as they play through February.
Toronto's top assets for trades at this year's deadline are Matthew Knies, Timothy Liljegren, Fraser Minten, Easton Cowan, Ryan Tverberg and their 2024 first-round pick. I find it hard to imagine Treliving trading Knies or Liljegren, but they are players other teams inquire about. This is Treliving's first NHL trade deadline with the Leafs, so it's hard to gauge what he'll do.
This article will focus on teams considered to be sellers or potential sellers in the Metropolitan Division. Let's take a look at possible trade targets for the Leafs.