The Toronto Maple Leafs are clearly a strong team, but with a few key additions, they could elevate to elite status. Despite entering the season with high hopes for a Stanley Cup victory, it’s become apparent through the first 20% of the season that they’re not quite on par with the likes of the Florida Panthers, Dallas Stars, New York Rangers, Winnipeg Jets, Carolina Hurricanes, and other top teams such as Vegas, Edmonton, and New Jersey.

To set themselves apart from the competition, the Leafs need two key additions: a number-one defenseman and a third-line center. While a potential acquisition like Simon Nemec from New Jersey would be ideal, the Leafs likely need a more established defenseman who can step in immediately and elevate the team’s overall depth.

While top-tier options like Zach Werenski or Moritz Seider are appealing, the Leafs may not have the assets to acquire them, and those players may not even be available. Enter the Pittsburgh Penguins. Struggling early in the season, the Penguins might look to rebuild, which could make defenseman Erik Karlsson available.

At 34, Karlsson remains an elite talent, currently boasting 10 points in 19 games, despite a less favorable usage in terms of zone starts. His 54% Expected Goals rating reflects his continued high-level play. With three more years left on his $10 million contract, the Leafs could acquire Karlsson if the Penguins retained half of his salary, potentially sending players like Max Domi and Conor Timmins in return.

If the Leafs could land Karlsson, their defensive pairings of Morgan Rielly/Karlsson and Jake McCabe/Tyler Tanev would instantly rank among the league’s best, putting Toronto firmly in the Cup contender conversation. The acquisition of Karlsson would be a more affordable and immediate upgrade compared to other potential number-one defenseman options.