**NEW YORK ISLANDERS**
Scribe: Maple Leafs’ “Ideal” Center is Potential Trade Target from Islanders
James Mirtle has pinpointed a perfect center for the Toronto Maple Leafs, indicating he could be available via trade from the New York Islanders.
On a recent episode of the JD Bunkis Podcast, Bunkis and Mirtle discussed center options for the Maple Leafs after evaluating their top six line combinations. Bunkis expressed doubt that the current roster has the necessary player, advocating for a trade to secure the right fit. Mirtle suggested that a center from the Islanders might be an option.
Bunkis remarked, “They don’t have the guy on their team that they need. They’re missing a puzzle piece.” He emphasized that the priority should be finding a center to support a line with William Nylander and Max Domi, acknowledging the challenge and cost of acquiring such a player. He stressed that it’s crucial for the team.
Bunkis wanted someone who could play effectively and not be a liability on the line, dismissing Pontus Holmberg and David Kampf as suitable options. He also noted that Fraser Minten isn’t ready yet. Mirtle pointed to a player from the Islanders as a potential solution.