Elliotte Friedman Identifies Leafs’ Untouchables As They Attempt to Complete a Trade

Matthew Knies, Auston Matthews and William Nylander

Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

As the Maple Leafs prepare to make a trade, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman has identified the four Leafs players that have been labeled as ‘untouchable’.

As the Toronto Maple Leafs continue their sluggish start to the season, dropping their 5th straight game to move to 8-9-2, it’s clear that it is time to shake up the roster.

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New Core Four for Maple Leafs?

The team’s poor start has fueled heavy trade speculation, and as the Leafs ponder their options on the trade market, top NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman has identified which Maple Leafs are considered untouchable — appointing a new “Core Four” in the process.

“Who do you think is the core? I think it’s four guys. I think it’s Matthews, Nylander, Tavares and Knies. Other than that, I think they are looking to see what’s out there.”

Strong Play From Core Players Not Enough

William Nylander and John Tavares have both been remarkable this season, and Matthew Knies has really come into his own, emerging as a star. If Auston Matthews was firing the puck the way only he can, the Leafs might not be in the position that they’re in right now.

While the Maple Leafs still have time to rebound from their poor start, it is clear they need a significant shake-up and a fresh face or two in the locker room. Thanks to Friedman, we know of at least 4 names who won’t be going anywhere.

Previously on Maple Leafs Daily