Toronto may turn to Pittsburgh for the offensive need (Image via: Getty Images) The Toronto Maple Leafs have been fighting their way through a season where injuries simply refuse to loosen their grip. Just when things appeared to be calming down, another setback arrived. The timing is troubling because the Eastern Conference race is tightening, and Toronto cannot afford to drift while key players sit out. Depth can only carry a team so far when potential playoff ground is at stake.Chris Tanev’s brief return provided a reassuring glimpse of stability on the blue line, only for a groin injury to take him out of the lineup again. Add the recent absences of Auston Matthews, William Nylander, and Dakota Joshua, and it becomes clear why Toronto’s margin for error has thinned. Even though the 4-0 win over New Jersey showed resilience, it did not change the underlying reality that the Maple Leafs need help from outside.
Toronto Maple Leafs trade need: Why the focus should shift to a top-six winger like Bryan Rust or Rickard Rakell
Tanev stretchered off after awkward hit – Full Incident
The Maple Leafs’ defense, while not ideal without Tanev, can survive stretches thanks to players like Jake McCabe and the recent addition of Troy Stecher. Where Toronto feels thinner is up front. If general manager Brad Treliving makes a move, it makes more sense for it to be for a scoring winger who can slot into the top six immediately and support the club’s offense when injuries pile up again, which they probably will.That leads to Pittsburgh. If the Penguins continue to slide, Kyle Dubas may have to open the door to meaningful trade discussions. Bryan Rust stands out as exactly the type of forward Toronto could use. Producing at a strong clip, capable at both ends, and under contract at a manageable number, he fits the competitive window and style the Leafs want. Rickard Rakell is another realistic target if Pittsburgh shifts toward selling. Despite dealing with health issues this season, his vision, puck play, and contract structure make him a logical candidate if made available.This is the type of move that could determine whether Toronto simply hangs around the playoff race or genuinely strengthens its position. A top-three Atlantic finish may be ambitious, but a wild-card push remains very realistic with the right reinforcement. Defense help will come when Tanev returns. Also Read: NHL injury update: Leafs’ Chris Tanev sidelined with lower-body concerns ahead of next game