Deal between Maple Leafs and Blackhawks in the works?

Maple Leafs and Blackhawks talking trade?

Photo credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

The Toronto Maple Leafs have again sent a high-ranking executive to scout the Chicago Blackhawks, suggesting a potential trade may be on the horizon.

The Maple Leafs are coming off of yet another disappointing loss, blowing an early lead in a 4-2 defeat to the Washington Capitals.

The loss pushes the team even further out of the playoff picture, dropping their record to 10-11-3, which places them second-last in the Eastern Conference standings.

Maple Leafs looking to shake things up to ignite play?

The Maple Leafs’ holes up and down the lineup have been easy to see this season. They lack depth on offence, have defensive issues on the back end, and show an overall lack of drive throughout the lineup. All of this to say that they are likely looking at all trade scenarios, and their target team appears to be the Chicago Blackhawks.

“According to David Pagnotta, The Toronto Maple Leafs had assistant GM Ryan Hardy and a one of their pro scouts [at] tonight’s game in Chicago vs. Nashville. It is the second time this month one of Toronto’s AGMs visited Chicago to take in a Blackhawks game.”

Blackhawks may have several potential good fits for the Maple Leafs

On defence, a few options include Connor Murphy and Matt Grzelcyk. While both players are defensive defenders, they could help shore up some much needed depth on the back end in Toronto, following injuries to Brandon Carlo and Chris Tanev.

If the Leafs really want to make a push, they could also look at some of Chicago’s stronger forward options that have term remaining in their contract, such as Ryan Donato and another former Leaf, Tyler Bertuzzi, who looks rejuvenated this season.

However, it seems unlikely the Blackhawks would want to part with a key player, as they have been playing well this year, and may be pushing to make the playoffs — unless the Leafs are willing to trade a capable roster player in return.

The Leafs need to make a move and fast

Whoever the Leafs are targeting, they would be wise to act as soon as possible. If they don’t, their playoff hopes may be as good as gone, as a major shakeup is clearly needed for the team to make a push for the rest of the season.