After a miserable season, Toronto is not only looking to add more depth to their roster, but also cut some salary off the books and that has led to speculation of a possible deal or two over the next few weeks.
Rumors of defender Dion Phaneuf being dealt has become big news in the hockey world, especially after the veteran stated he wanted out of the “nut house.”
Several clubs around the league could use a solid vet on the back line, including Edmonton who has struggled to stop the opposition from scoring. With several quality young prospects available, its been reported they could deal Leon Draisaitl, especially now that the Oilers have the top overall pick next month.
Draisaitl just led his Kelowna Rockets to a WHL Championship, winning the MVP honors along the way. With 53 points in just 32 games, the 19-year-old earned some valuable playing time and experience, but it could also mean that he will play elsewhere when the 2015-16 NHL season begins.
There has been talk if Dylan Strome is taken with the third selection by Arizona, the Toronto Maple Leafs will look to move the fourth selection and Draisaitl would be a great addition for a team that struggled to put the puck in the net this past season.
Fans and experts expected more from the Leafs this past year and while the team played well at home, on the road they were among the worst teams in the league. Adding a top-notch scorer would help, especially if they can move Phaneuf in the process as it would give the front office some flexibility over the summer to add even more talent to a squad that needs help all across the board.
