The Maple Leafs are shopping with one rule in mind, and it narrows the entire market
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The Toronto Maple Leafs have one major specific goal as trade buyers, and it’s a repeat of last season.
The trade deadline plans for the Toronto Maple Leafs have been revealed, and signal the plans for Leafs GM Brad Treliving as buyers.
Although Toronto is considering the potential of being sellers, a new report is indicating that the Leafs are still looking at options for what they can buy, and have a clear interest in mind.
Taking on additional term was done by Treliving last season when he acquired defenseman Brandon Carlo and forward Scott Laughton, both acquired with their contracts extending beyond the season.
Pagnotta’s report is an indication that Toronto is looking at the same sort of deal that gives them additional support beyond this year.
Toronto Maple Leafs interested in players with term over rentals
The Toronto Maple Leafs focus in terms of buying looks as if the goal is to get players who have their contacts go beyond beyond this season.
The Leafs could still add rentals if it is the most impactful option, but the interest from Treliving seems to be adding players who would be able to contribute for next season.
Toronto’s top linked players such as Dougie Hamilton, are rental players, and may still be looked at depending on the factors at hand, but would appear Treliving is also looking beyond at next season, necessary as the Leafs this year are entering an uncertain period over contention.
Players with long-term contract lock downs such as Nazem Kadri and Robert Thomas may look less likely, however, more likely players in the additional 1-2 year range, options that won’t cost too much for a Leafs team lacking assets.
Stuck between buyers and sellers this season, Toronto is already hoping to use this trade deadline to gear up for a more successful season next year.
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The Maple Leafs are shopping with one rule in mind, and it narrows the entire market
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