The Toronto Maple Leafs focused on enhancing their defense and goaltending during the offseason, and a recent trade proposal suggests adding star defenseman from the Seattle Kraken.
Using PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool, a user suggested a major trade that would have Toronto acquiring him by giving up two draft picks and a prospect, showing the team’s commitment to an all-in approach this season.
He, who hails from Toronto and is entering the final two years of his five-year, $23 million contract, would significantly strengthen the Maple Leafs’ blue line. At 6-foot-7, he could form a second-line pairing and potentially allow him to move to the third pairing, where he may perform better. Last season,he recorded 2 goals and 13 assists for a total of 15 points in 82 games with the Kraken.
In this proposed trade, the Maple Leafs would also send prospect, who at 22 could compete for NHL minutes this season He, drafted in the third round in 2020, tallied 8 goals and 31 assists for 39 points in 68 AHL games last season.
In coaching news, Toronto has brought in Stanley Cup champion Craig Berube, replacing them has raised the intensity during training camp, and players have responded positively. “There’s a lot of work and competition out there, learning to be uncomfortable and still compete,” he stated on September 18. Veteran forward Ryan Reaves remarked that the practice intensity was among the toughest he’s experienced, signaling a strong message about the team’s identity.
The Maple Leafs will kick off their 2024-25 NHL season on the road against the Montreal Canadiens on October 9.
On the other hand, the Seattle Kraken, after missing the playoffs last season, made bold moves this offseason by signing Stanley Cup champions Chandler Stephenson and Brandon Montour to seven-year contracts. General manager Ron Francis expressed excitement about these acquisitions, highlighting the appeal of the franchise to players.
The Kraken are set to begin their 2024-25 NHL season at home against the St. Louis Blues on October 8.
