Darren Dreger reveals Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving's top targets in free agency

PUBLICATION

Graham Montgomery
June 28, 2024 (9:52)

SHARE THIS STORY

Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving appears to be targeting some of the top UFA defenseman this summer including Chris Tanev and Brandon Montour.

This information comes to us from NHL insider Darren Dreger. According to Dregs, Brad Treliving's number one target in free agency is Stars defenseman Chris Tanev. Notably, Treliving has worked with Tanev in the past as they were both part of the Calgary Flames organization.

Darren Dreger says that #LeafsForever GM Brad Treliving is targeting the following defenseman:

-Chris Tanev
-Brandon Montour
-Matt Roy
-Brett Pesce
-Alexandre Carrier
-Sean Walker
-Vincent Desharnais

Athletic writer James Mirtle has revealed one surprising tactic Treliving may be considering in order to entice Tanev to leave the Stars. The 34-year-old is reportedly looking for a four-year extension, which is already more than most teams would probably feel comfortable with. However, Treliving may be willing to go as long as five years in order to make a deal work.

"Tanev, not unsurprisingly, holds the most appeal to the Leafs. One path they make take with the 34-year-old in particular is to extend the term of their offer to him. Instead of offering the four-year contract Tanev is eyeing, The Leafs could increase the number of years on the deal to bring down the cap hit to a more favorable number." - James Mirtle

It appears as though the Leafs and the Stars may be gearing up for a bidding war over Tanev's services. Treliving has yet to extend either Bertuzzi or Domi, possibly out of a desire to save cap space for the UFA defenseman. Jim Nill on the other hand has traded Ty Delandrea and bought out Ryan Suter to build his own cap room as much as possible.

The Dallas Stars are buying out the last year of Ryan Suter's contract, saving them $2.87 million on the cap next year.

It's a key step toward re-signing Chris Tanev.

On the surprising move from Jim Nill and what it implies for Dallas ⤵️

However things turn out, this is certainly shaping up to be a very interesting offseason for the Leafs. Be sure to tune in July 1st to see how things shake out.