Brad Treliving and the Maple Leafs Exploring Surprise Move During Playoff Run

The Toronto Maple Leafs unfortunately missed out on their shot to complete what would have been their first 4-game sweep in the Stanley Cup Playoffs since they did so against the divisional foe Ottawa Senators in 2001.

Coincidentally, they're locked in the first Battle of Ontario since 2004 against the Senators; they lead the series 3-1 after Saturday night's 4-3 OT loss at Canadian Tire Centre.

The Senators ensured they survive to play another day, forcing Game 5 in Toronto on Monday night after Jake Sanderson scored the OT game winner:

In the meantime, the Maple Leafs are reportedly considering an interesting move involving their American Hockey League affiliate.

A few select players from the Toronto Marlies, who were recently eliminated from the Calder Cup Playoffs by the Cleveland Monsters, could find themselves with an invite to train with the Leafs.

Per journalist Lance Hornby:

Berube alluded as much on Sunday during Toronto's off-day, saying that he'll get together with Treliving to discuss the issue.

There are several names who could benefit from the call up including Jacob Quillan, Alex Steeves, Alex Nylander, Logan Shaw, Luke Haymes, Ryan Kirwan, John Prokop, Borya Valis, and the list goes on and on.

Which is surprising given the fact that Toronto's farm system a month and a half ago was barely anything to turn your heads at, meanwhile in such a short span they could have some serious firepower, and why not see how the young kids can handle some extra pressure.

Several of the Maple leafs mentioned above have already made their debuts with the team this season, and it could be a good way to gauge who has the best chance of sticking around next season, or earning that coveted spot come training camp.

Ottawa did the same thing with Carter Yakemchuk after there were concerns about injuries to their defense, and with the potential for injury thanks to some unsavory Senators, it may not be bad for Toronto to follow suit.

While there is no guarantee that any of the players will end up playing, or even touching the ice for the playoffs (though there is no roster restriction that would prevent it).

It's a positive sign that Toronto is willing to look at their future and not say "What can we get for them?" and instead are asking "What can they offer us in our time of need?"

Game 5 between the Maple Leafs and Senators is on Tuesday; a potential Game 6, should Ottawa win, will be played later in the week, but the Maple Leafs want to set an example for their young guns and win by any means necessary.