A trade proposal has the Toronto Maple Leafs acquiring Alex Tuch from the Buffalo Sabres to strengthen their offense as they push for the Stanley Cup.

Using the PuckGM tool on PuckPedia, one user suggested a deal where the Maple Leafs would acquire Tuch (with $2.4 million of his salary retained) in exchange for forward Easton Cowan, a 2027 first-round pick, and a 2025 second-round pick (from Florida).

Tuch, currently in the sixth year of a seven-year, $33.25 million contract with the Sabres, would provide the Leafs with additional depth scoring. So far this season, he has recorded 8 goals and 16 assists in 29 games. The 27-year-old winger could slot into Toronto’s middle six and add a needed offensive spark.

In return, the Sabres would get Cowan, Toronto’s top prospect, selected 28th overall in the 2023 NHL Draft. Cowan is currently playing for the OHL’s London Knights, where he has 28 points in 20 games, and will also represent Canada at the upcoming World Junior Championship. Buffalo would also receive two draft picks to further bolster their future.

For the Maple Leafs, acquiring Tuch addresses their need for secondary scoring. While Toronto boasts stars like Auston Matthews, John Tavares, William Nylander, and Mitch Marner, the team has struggled with depth scoring beyond their top players, as noted by coach Craig Berube. He emphasized the importance of players like Tuch being more assertive around the net to contribute in a physical, goal-scoring role.

Despite these concerns, Toronto is leading the Atlantic Division with an 18-9-2 record and will face the Detroit Red Wings on December 14.

For Buffalo, a team still in the midst of the NHL’s longest playoff drought, the trade makes sense as they look to rebuild through the draft. Sabres GM Kevyn Adams acknowledged that Buffalo isn’t a top destination for free agents, which makes it crucial to acquire high-value prospects and picks. The Sabres currently sit at 11-14-4 on the season.