Maple Leafs Eyeing Big Names Before Trade Deadline

The Toronto Maple Leafs are going to try to find a way to make their team playoff-worthy. After constant disappointment year after year, the organization is hopefully trying to make things right. The Maple Leafs have reportedly been interested in multiple top trade targets with the hopes of seeing the second round for the first time since 2023. There are several possible names to consider, but here are three top players the Maple Leafs could potentially make a splash on this trade deadline.

Nelson May Join Former Teammate Tavares in Toronto

Brock Nelson, 33, is on pace for 50+ points this season with 15 goals and 17 assists so far this year. He is coming off a 69-point season with 34 goals and 35 assists, playing as the team’s second-line center. With first-line center Mathew Barzal out of the lineup due to an injury, Nelson will be able to see more ice time, improving his interest.

Nelson primarily plays center but can also play left wing if the team really needs him to. When looking at the Maple Leafs lineup, the team’s centers are very strong. Of course, Auston Matthews would man the first line, and John Tavares would man the second. If Nelson were to find himself in Toronto, he could easily play second or even first-line minutes on the left side. With an average of 3.06 goals scored per game, Toronto could really use the extra offense that Nelson would bring to the ice.

Brandon Tanev Will Bring “Picture Perfect” Energy to the Locker Room

While mainly known for his iconic headshot, Brandon Tanev, 33, is known as a potential stud in Toronto. The squad has been looking to become more physical over the years with the additions of players like Ryan Reaves and older brother Chris Tanev. It would be the first time both brothers have played on the same team.

Tanev has 16 points (9g, 7a) in 52 games played with the Seattle Kraken this season. The undrafted forward has an annual cap hit of $3.5 million, and considering the Kraken have not used any of their retention spots, Seattle could assist in cap management for Toronto. As mentioned above, Toronto wants to see more physicality, especially out of their depth. Adding Tanev in the bottom six would greatly benefit some of the younger players who need a veteran to model off of.

---

---

Gourde Still Gaining Traction in Toronto Despite Injury

Even with Yanni Gourde out for the next 5-7 weeks after undergoing a sports hernia surgery, Toronto has still remained highly interested. Gourde, 33, has 16 points (6g, 10a) in 35 games played with the Kraken. The undrafted forward has played a crucial role in the Emerald City. He is a consistent top-six forward with a two-way upside. He has averaged a plus/minus of +43 throughout his entire career, spanning between the Kraken and the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Gourde has two Stanley Cups under his belt, won in 2020 and 2021 with the Lightning. His Stanley Cup experience is something that Toronto desperately needs if they want to see success outside of the first round. Since Gourde also played in the same division as Toronto, he would be aware of nearly every playoff threat within the Atlantic.

Next: 3 Reasons Maple Leafs Fans Will See Cowan as a Black Ace