Could a reunion be in the cards for the Maple Leafs and their former 2nd round pick?

Travis Dermott is looking to continue his NHL career following surgery, should the Leafs take a flier and bring back their former blueliner?

Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski Imagn Images

The Toronto Maple Leafs are still banged up on the blueline, but there could be a deal to be made between the team and former Leafs defenseman Travis Dermott.

In March of 2022, the Leafs sent Travis Dermott to the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for a third-round pick. The move was a pre-cursor to free up a roster spot and cap space for former GM Kyle Dubas to bring in veteran Mark Giordano.

The 34th overall pick in the 2015 draft struggled to find a regular spot in the Leafs’ lineup and has continued to struggle locking down a consistent roster spot ever since.

Dermott played in just 19 games last season for the Edmonton Oilers and Minnesota Wild before being shut down for the season. Now, as we approach December, he remains a free agent.

Injury issues have haunted Dermott

Since 2021, Dermott has dealt with a handful of injuries, including concussions, and shoulder issues. Those injuries have played a role in his ability to land a regular shift in the NHL for more than a handful of games at a time.

However, the 28-year-old underwent shoulder surgery in July and has since resumed skating and is looking to continue his NHL career.

Should the Leafs take a flier on their former defenseman?

During his time with the Leafs, Dermott showed flashes of the talent he possesses, specifically in moving the puck with both his feet and first pass.

With his shoulder issues seemingly behind him, Dermott could help fill a gap for the Leafs. The only knock is that he is a left shot — something the Leafs already have too many of. But is he an upgrade over someone like Dakota Mermis? He might be.

At this point, there are no official reports linking Dermott to the Maple Leafs, though a deal to set up a reunion would be an inexpensive way to help address the blueline issues or act as a bit of a stopgap solution until the Leafs return to full health.