The Toronto Maple Leafs are focusing on strengthening their defense and goaltending, considering a trade for a veteran defenseman. Using PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool, one user proposed that the Maple Leafs acquire Matt Grzelcyk from the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Proposed Trade:
– Maple Leafs Receive: Matt Grzelcyk
– Penguins Receive: Pontus Holmberg, a 2026 third-round pick, and a 2025 sixth-round pick.

This deal benefits both teams: the Penguins gain a young forward and two draft picks for the future, while the Maple Leafs add a seasoned defenseman for immediate support. Grzelcyk, who signed a one-year, $2.75 million contract with the Penguins this offseason, could become a trade target if Pittsburgh continues to struggle. His playoff experience makes him a good fit for Toronto’s third defensive pairing.

In another move, the Maple Leafs traded Timothy Liljegren to the San Jose Sharks, acquiring Matt Benning and two draft picks in return. Despite this, NHL insider Darren Dreger indicates that Toronto may pursue further transactions, potentially involving Benning, to manage roster space rather than salary cap concerns.

Benning has played 464 games, tallying 17 goals and 85 assists. As for Grzelcyk, NHL analyst Michael Derosa believes he will be a key trade candidate if the Penguins fail to improve, given his capability to play in the top four and his playoff experience with the Bruins. Grzelcyk has appeared in 457 games, recording 25 goals and 116 assists.