The Toronto Maple Leafs, already one of the NHL’s top teams, are expected to strengthen their roster before the playoffs. A recent trade proposal, shared via PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool, suggests the Leafs could acquire defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen from the Philadelphia Flyers.

Proposed Trade:

• Maple Leafs acquire: Rasmus Ristolainen
• Flyers acquire: David Kämpf and a 2027 second-round pick

This trade could be mutually beneficial. Toronto would solidify its blue line with a veteran defenseman who brings offensive potential and could boost their power play. Meanwhile, Philadelphia would gain a valuable draft pick and David Kämpf, a reliable penalty-killing forward in the second year of his four-year, $9.6 million contract.

Ristolainen, currently in the third season of a five-year, $25.5 million deal, has logged 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists) in 17 games with the Flyers this season. His addition would provide depth and versatility to Toronto’s defense.

Injury Challenges for the Maple Leafs

The Leafs are navigating injuries to key players, including captain Auston Matthews, Max Pacioretty, and Calle Järnkrok. Matthews, who has tallied 11 points in 13 games this season, remains sidelined but has not suffered setbacks, according to head coach Craig Berube.

“We’re letting him recover to get him 100%,” Berube stated on November 15. “The hope is to move forward without lingering issues.”

The Leafs face the Edmonton Oilers on November 16, hoping to maintain momentum despite their injury woes.

Ristolainen’s Trade Value

Rasmus Ristolainen’s name has resurfaced in trade discussions as the Flyers look to the future. The defenseman, drafted eighth overall by the Buffalo Sabres in 2013, was a trade target for Toronto last season before an injury ended his campaign.

Anthony Di Marco of Daily Faceoff reported that the Maple Leafs and Vancouver Canucks showed interest in Ristolainen before his February injury sidelined him. Now healthy, he could become a valuable asset for teams looking to add defensive depth before the trade deadline.

As the Leafs continue their pursuit of playoff success, a deal for Ristolainen could address their needs and provide a boost to their defensive lineup.