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One Trade-Deadline Player Who Should Help the Maple Leafs

Given what the Toronto Maple Leafs need, there’s one player out there who could help them at the trade deadline. Who is he? What’s he bring?

Before long, the NHL trade deadline will approach. Once again, the Toronto Maple Leafs will be involved in a big way. Currently, there are rumors the team is eyeing Yanni Gourde, the gritty, two-time Stanley Cup champion from the Seattle Kraken, to address their ongoing struggle at the center position. The Leafs desperately need a third-line center, and acquiring Gourde could be just the solution.

The Athletic’s recent mock trade proposes a one-for-one deal where Toronto acquires Gourde in exchange for Ben Danford, their recent first-round pick. This trade has generated considerable interest, and it’s worth considering both the benefits and the potential drawbacks of such a move for the Maple Leafs.



Why Gourde Makes Sense for the Maple Leafs

Reason One: Gourde Addresses the Team’s Third-Line Center Need

The Maple Leafs have long been searching for a reliable third-line center, a position that has plagued them for years. Gourde fits the bill perfectly. He’s a tenacious, fast, and highly competitive player who can handle tough matchups and stabilize the bottom six. His offensive and defensive versatility makes him an ideal candidate to anchor the third line and relieve some pressure on the top two lines.

Reason Two: Gourde Brings Proven Playoff Pedigree

Gourde’s track record in the postseason is undeniable. As a key contributor to the Tampa Bay Lightning’s back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2020 and 2021, he’s no stranger to high-stakes hockey. His ability to step up in critical moments would be invaluable for the Leafs, especially if they make a deep playoff run. With his two Stanley Cups, Gourde brings the kind of winning mentality the Leafs could benefit from in their pursuit of a championship.

Reason Three: Gourde Should Generate Depth Scoring

One of the most significant issues for the Maple Leafs this season is their lack of scoring from their bottom two lines. While the top six have performed well, the team needs a player who can help generate offense further down the lineup. With his ability to chip in offensively and create opportunities around the net, Gourde could provide that much-needed depth scoring. With five goals and nine assists so far this season, he may not be lighting up the scoreboard, but he’s a player who can add value even when not scoring at a high rate.

The Case Against Trading for Gourde

Reason One: Gourde’s Salary Cap Hit and Long-Term Future

Gourde’s current cap hit of $5.1 million might be manageable for the Maple Leafs. However, with the team already close to the cap, adding another significant contract could complicate things, especially in the long term. Additionally, giving up a first-round pick for a player who might only be around for the remainder of the season could be considered risky, particularly if the Leafs cannot secure a deep playoff run.

Reason Two: Will Gourde Experience an Offensive Decline?

Gourde’s offensive numbers have been down this season. While he’s still effective in other areas, some might question whether he can contribute enough offensively to justify the trade. With the Maple Leafs’ offensive struggles from the bottom six, adding a player who isn’t putting up offensive numbers could be a gamble.

Yanni Gourde Maple Leafs trade talk
Yanni Gourde Maple Leafs trade talk

Is Gourde Worth the Risk?

If the Maple Leafs were to acquire Gourde, he would instantly solidify their third line, adding a player who can play in all situations—whether on the penalty kill, in key defensive moments, or contributing offensively when needed. His strong skating, competitive nature, and leadership would also provide a much-needed spark for the Leafs, particularly in the postseason. With Gourde on board, Toronto would have a more balanced lineup, helping them avoid the offensive woes that have plagued them from their bottom-six players.

While Gourde has qualities that would make him a strong fit for the Maple Leafs, the question remains whether he’s worth a first-round pick. Some might argue that his offensive numbers have dipped this season. Although he has playoff experience, there is a chance his best years are behind him. Moreover, Gourde’s contract is in its final year, which could make him a rental, further complicating the decision to give up a potentially valuable asset like a first-round pick.

What’s Next for the Maple Leafs?

As the trade deadline approaches, the Maple Leafs must carefully consider the value of acquiring Yanni Gourde. While adding a Stanley Cup champion and reliable third-line center would improve their roster, the price—especially in the form of a first-round pick—could be a tough pill to swallow. However, if the Leafs are serious about making a run for the Stanley Cup, adding a player like Gourde could be the difference-maker they need. With the trade deadline looming, expect Toronto to continue evaluating all possible options to bolster their lineup and address their depth scoring issues.

Related: Does Loss to Wings Prove Deeper Issue at Play for Maple Leafs?

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