4 Names the Maple Leafs Keep Being Linked to in Trade Rumors

As the Olympic break nears, the roster freeze kicks in, and eventually the NHL trade deadline approaches, the Toronto Maple Leafs remain one of the league’s most aggressive and closely watched teams. With injuries mounting on the blue line and a desire to make a move, Toronto has been linked to several notable names in recent weeks.

---

It’s unclear if any of these trades have legs, but here’s a look at the players most frequently connected to the Maple Leafs.

Nazem Kadri

Following the trade of Rasmus Andersson, attention in Calgary has shifted to Nazem Kadri and whether the Flames could consider moving the veteran center. The Flames aren’t in a rush, and Kadri has expressed a preference to remain in Calgary. Still, his desire to compete for another Stanley Cup has kept the rumor mill turning.

TSN insider Darren Dreger reported that Toronto, Montreal, Colorado, Los Angeles, and Dallas have all shown interest. A reunion with the Maple Leafs would be a fascinating storyline, especially given Kadri’s physical edge and playoff experience. This reunion has been talked about for months.

The 35-year-old has 34 points in 49 games during a down offensive season and is in year four of a seven-year, $49 million contract.

Related: Host Calls for Far-Fetched Trade Between Maple Leafs and Devils

Brandon Montour

Chris Tanev’s potentially season-ending injury has left Toronto with a hole on the right side of its defense, and Brandon Montour is an intriguing fit. Nick Kypreos recently tossed out the idea, noting that the Maple Leafs have pursued Montour in the past. His ability to log heavy minutes, drive offense, and quarterback a power play makes him an ideal target.

The challenge is cost. Montour is under contract for five more seasons at $7.14 million per year, and acquiring him would almost certainly require top prospects such as Easton Cowan or Ben Danford, along with draft capital. Still, Montour’s offensive upside could make him worth the gamble for a team running out of time with its current core.

Luke Schenn

The veteran market is heating up, and Luke Schenn has emerged as a practical, lower-cost option for Toronto. With an expiring contract and a $2.75 million cap hit, Schenn would be a simple add for a Leafs team seeking toughness and reliability. The Winnipeg Jets might be sellers if they don’t climb back into the playoff mix.

Insiders have suggested a third stint in Toronto is very much in play, especially given Schenn’s strong chemistry with Morgan Rielly during the 2023 playoff run. He wouldn’t solve Toronto’s puck-moving issues, but he would add stability and physical presence on a depleted blue line at a reasonable price.

Dougie Hamilton

Perhaps the most ambitious name linked to Toronto is Dougie Hamilton. The Leafs have reportedly expressed interest in the Devils defenseman, though cap constraints remain the biggest hurdle. Hamilton carries a $9 million cap hit through 2028, meaning Toronto would need to get creative through LTIR usage, salary retention, or moving contracts out.

Despite a down season offensively, it shouldn’t shock fans that Hamilton is on Toronto’s radar, given his track record as an elite right-shot defenseman. Reports suggest San Jose, Utah, and Toronto are among the most serious suitors, but if the Leafs can make the math work, Hamilton might be someone they make a play for.

Next: Winger Drops as Oilers Falling Down the Trade Urgency Chart