The Toronto Maple Leafs are in need of center depth and are likely to address this before the trade deadline. NHL analyst Corey Abbott of *The Hockey Writers* suggests that the Leafs could target San Jose Sharks’ forward Mikael Granlund in a potential trade.

“Since joining the Sharks in 2023-24, Mikael Granlund has been a key offensive contributor,” Abbott noted. “He led the Sharks with 48 assists and 60 points over 69 games last season and has kept up his production this year. Through 17 games, he’s recorded seven goals, 11 assists, 18 points, seven power-play points, and 57 shots on goal.”

At 33, Granlund has a $5 million cap hit and is in the final year of his $20 million contract without any trade protection. Abbott argues that Sharks’ GM Mike Grier could see value in trading him to a playoff-contending team, especially given his status as a pending UFA. “With Leafs GM Brad Treliving already making one trade with Grier this season—acquiring Timothy Liljegren for draft picks and defenseman Matt Benning—adding Granlund as a middle-six center would deepen Toronto’s roster,” Abbott explained.

Adding Granlund could make him Toronto’s third-line center, allowing Max Domi to shift to the wing, adding further depth to the lineup.

Toronto has prioritized bolstering its defense and goaltending over the summer, but as Abbott points out, “the forward group needs attention heading into the postseason. Toronto should be in the mix for additional center depth.” Injuries to key players, including Auston Matthews, Max Pacioretty, and Calle Jarnkrok, further highlight this need.

Coach Craig Berube acknowledged that the team will need to adapt amid the injuries. “We definitely have to mix it up a little bit,” Berube said. Matthews, initially expected to return on November 12, remains uncertain, leaving the Leafs to face the Edmonton Oilers on November 16 with roster adjustments in the works.