Despite focusing on goaltending and defense during the offseason, the Toronto Maple Leafs’ offense has struggled to start the season. To address this, one trade proposal, created using the PuckGM tool on PuckPedia, suggests the Leafs could acquire forward Ryan Strome from the Anaheim Ducks.
Proposed Trade:
Maple Leafs Receive:
- Ryan Strome ($2.5 million retained)
Ducks Receive:
- Calle Jarnkrok
- Pontus Holmberg
- 2025 second-round pick (from Florida)
The trade makes sense for Anaheim, as it would shed Strome’s contract while gaining a second-round pick and two NHL-caliber players, including Holmberg, a young forward who could contribute to their rebuilding efforts. Strome, currently in the third year of a five-year, $25 million deal, has contributed 6 points (3 goals, 3 assists) in 11 games this season. With the Leafs, he could bolster the middle-six and add offensive depth, particularly on the power play.
In return, the Ducks would get Jarnkrok, who is in the third year of a four-year, $8.4 million contract. Jarnkrok could also play in a middle-six role for Anaheim and possibly be dealt at the trade deadline for additional assets. However, Jarnkrok is still recovering from an injury sustained during training camp and has yet to make his season debut.
Holmberg, 25, is a bottom-six forward who has played 102 career NHL games, posting 31 points (12 goals, 19 assists). He fits into the Ducks’ young core and could contribute to their rebuild.
Ducks’ Outlook: Anaheim, currently sitting at 4-5-2 and near the bottom of the Pacific Division, has not reached the playoffs since 2017-18. Despite being in the midst of a rebuild, veteran forward Alex Killorn believes the Ducks have a shot at competing for a playoff spot this season. However, he acknowledges it will be a long road ahead.
While the trade is still hypothetical, it highlights the potential for both teams to address their current needs, with Toronto seeking offensive help and Anaheim continuing to build for the future.