The Toronto Maple Leafs have been linked to multiple trade targets as the deadline approaches, but recent speculation suggests they may prioritize acquiring a defenseman rather than reinforcing their offense. Notably, Sportsnet’s Justin Bourne and The Athletic’s Jonas Siegel have both connected Toronto to St. Louis Blues defenseman Colton Parayko, a move that would reunite him with former head coach Craig Berube.

Bourne identified Parayko as the Leafs’ “top player of interest,” emphasizing his long-term value despite the constraints of his contract, which carries a $6.5 million cap hit through 2030 as part of an eight-year, $52 million deal. “Yes, Parayko is 31 and has five years remaining after this season. But for now, and at least the next couple of years, he’s an outstanding defender who can also skate and shoot,” Bourne wrote. “At six-foot-six and 230 pounds, he already has 12 goals this season after scoring 10 last year, and his salary remains at $6.5 million.”

Previously, Siegel speculated that Toronto could take a more ambitious approach to strengthening their defense, suggesting that instead of settling for a short-term solution, they might pursue Parayko. “The Leafs might want to think bigger and bolder. Do they consider, say, Colton Parayko, rather than a short-term option to address their need on defense?” Siegel wrote. He also pointed out that Berube’s familiarity with Parayko from their 2019 Stanley Cup-winning run could make him a particularly appealing addition.

Parayko has been a key piece for St. Louis this season, recording 13 goals and 17 assists in 57 games while averaging over 24 minutes of ice time per game. However, even if the Blues retain a portion of his salary in a trade, Toronto faces significant challenges in acquiring him due to their limited $2.2 million cap space and the long-term commitment required to keep him through his age-37 season.