As the March 6 NHL Trade Deadline gets closer, the situation in Toronto is starting to look a lot different. We’re used to seeing the Maple Leafs as buyers at this time of year. But sitting six points out of a playoff spot with little time before the deadline changes things. Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers are desperate to finally win a Stanley Cup after falling just short the last two seasons.
If the Maple Leafs decide to move some players and reset, they might find that Edmonton is their best trade partner.
A report from Elliotte Friedman suggested the Oilers are looking at Bobby McMann. On paper, it’s a logical fit for Edmonton. McMann brings the heavy, physical style their bottom six has been missing.
He already has 19 goals and carries a $1.35 million cap hit, which makes him a significant trade chip for Toronto. Edmonton is tight against the cap, so a player like McMann fits their budget. If the Maple Leafs are willing to retain a bit of salary, they could push for a high draft pick along with a quality prospect in return.
Pagnotta Links Roy and Ekman-Larsson to Edmonton
The rumours don’t stop with McMann. David Pagnotta has also linked Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Nicolas Roy to the Oilers as potential targets. Edmonton’s defence has been inconsistent, and a veteran like Ekman-Larsson could bring some stability to their top four.
Oliver Ekman Larsson Maple Leafs
At the same time, Roy would address their need at third-line centre. His $3 million cap hit isn’t impossible to move, especially if Edmonton clears space by moving Andrew Mangiapane. As Pagnotta noted, the Oilers wouldn’t just be offering a draft pick. A deal for Ekman-Larsson could include Isaac Howard as part of the return.
The most interesting name to watch might be Anthony Stolarz. Even though the Oilers added Tristan Jarry and called up Connor Ingram, their goaltending situation has still been shaky. Stolarz recently returned from injury, but he showed last season and again on Feb. 3 against Edmonton what he can bring to a crease. That game could have served as an audition.
With Joseph Woll and Dennis Hildeby ready for more responsibility in Toronto, Stolarz could become the odd man out. If Edmonton wants a veteran who can step in and make timely saves, he might be the answer.
As always, we’ll see how this unfolds after the Olympic break. If the Maple Leafs handle this the right way, they could walk away with a strong return from an Oilers team that feels the pressure to win now.
Next: Ex-NHLer Suggests Maple Leafs Get Star Defenseman for Auston Matthews
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