The Toronto Maple Leafs are expected to be active ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline as they aim to strengthen their roster for a Stanley Cup run.
Using the PuckGM tool on PuckPedia, one user proposed a trade where the Maple Leafs acquire two key players from the Philadelphia Flyers in a blockbuster deal:
Maple Leafs receive:
- Scott Laughton ($1.5 million retained)
- Rasmus Ristolainen
Flyers receive:
- Conor Timmins
- Nick Robertson
- Pontus Holmberg
- 2027 first-round pick
- 2027 third-round pick
This potential deal would see the Leafs bring in Laughton, a third-line center, and Ristolainen, a defenseman, in exchange for three NHL players and two valuable draft picks. Laughton, in his fourth year of a five-year, $15 million deal, has posted 9 goals and 13 assists in 40 games this season. Ristolainen, in his third year of a five-year, $25.5 million contract, has contributed 1 goal and 10 assists over 40 games.
The Flyers would benefit from receiving two young forwards in Robertson and Holmberg, as well as the future picks. Timmins, in the final year of his two-year, $2.2 million deal, could also help replace Ristolainen on the blue line.
Toronto’s Interest in Laughton
The Leafs are reportedly targeting a third-line center, and Laughton has emerged as a potential acquisition. NHL insider David Pagnotta confirmed Toronto’s interest, noting that the Flyers are willing to listen to offers. Laughton has one year left on his contract with a $3 million cap hit.
Toronto Looking for a Center
As the trade deadline approaches, the Maple Leafs are prioritizing the acquisition of a middle-six center with term. NHL insider Chris Johnston believes Toronto will acquire a center before the deadline, with management having identified this need months ago. The Leafs have the draft picks and prospects to make such a move.
Currently sitting atop the Atlantic Division with a 26-13-2 record, the Maple Leafs are clearly focused on strengthening their roster ahead of a postseason push.