Countdown to the 2024 deadline: Assessing 5 Trade Assets of the Maple Leafs

Welcome back to another episode of The Countdown. In this week’s installment, let’s delve into the potential trades that Toronto Maple Leafs’ General Manager Brad Treliving might orchestrate before Friday’s trade deadline. Treliving has been actively involved in reshaping the team’s roster, recently acquiring Ilya Lyubushkin from the Anaheim Ducks. However, rumors suggest that Treliving’s wheeling and dealing might not end there.

Thanks to previous aggressive moves by Kyle Dubas, the Maple Leafs’ prospect pool isn’t as deep as it once was. This situation necessitates Treliving to be innovative and strategic in assembling trade packages to secure impactful players for the stretch run and beyond.

Without further ado, here are five trade assets that the Maple Leafs could potentially utilize before the deadline:

1. Nick Robertson:
Robertson recently found himself squeezed out of the NHL roster due to various roster adjustments. Although only 22 years old, Robertson has expressed discontent with his current situation. Despite intermittent production, his offensive prowess and potential remain undeniable. Given his age and skill set, Robertson could be a valuable bargaining chip in trade negotiations, possibly fetching a top defenseman like Adam Larsson from the Seattle Kraken.

2. 2024 First-Round Pick:
Despite the Maple Leafs’ limited draft assets, their 2024 first-round pick holds significant trade value. Although projected to be a late first-round selection, the unpredictability of drafts makes it a coveted asset. Treliving could opt to bundle this pick with other pieces to maximize its worth, ensuring a substantial return, potentially including players with contract extensions.

3. Easton Cowan:
Cowan, the Maple Leafs’ top prospect, has been a standout performer in the OHL, showcasing his offensive talents. While highly valued within the organization, Cowan’s inclusion in trade discussions cannot be ruled out. However, if considered, Treliving must ensure any trade partners are in the Western Conference to avoid facing Cowan regularly in the future.

4. Fraser Minten:
Another promising prospect, Minten offers a different skill set than Cowan, projecting as a shutdown center. Despite his contributions, Minten could become expendable if it means securing a top-pair defenseman. With depth at the center position, Treliving may opt to part ways with Minten to address defensive needs.

5. Timothy Liljegren:
Treliving’s desire to upgrade the team’s defense may lead to the departure of defenseman Timothy Liljegren. Despite flashes of brilliance, Liljegren’s inconsistency has left fans wanting more. With a reasonable cap hit and impending restricted free agency, Liljegren could be included in trade packages aimed at bolstering the team’s blue line.

In conclusion, as the trade deadline approaches, Treliving faces the challenging task of navigating the trade market to improve the Maple Leafs’ roster. With a mix of prospects, draft picks, and roster players at his disposal, Treliving must strike the right balance to address the team’s needs while maximizing the return on any potential trades. Stay tuned as the deadline approaches for any developments in the Maple Leafs’ trade front.