Insider reveals Leafs officially eyeing former top pairing defenseman

According to a report from Clay Brewer of Nashville Hockey Now, the Maple Leafs among other teams have significant interest in veteran defenseman Tyson Barrie.

While most known for his time in Colorado and Edmonton, Barrie played for Toronto back in the 2019-20 season, tallying an impressive 39 points in 70 games.

Barrie won't be enough to fix the Maple Leas myriad of issues this season, but given the injuries to Timothy Liljegren, John Klingberg and Mark Giordano, if they could get him for cheap, it would be a major upgrade to a group that is in dire need of one.

In 798 NHL games, the 32-year old has been very consistent, posting 109 goals and 501 points, and while he may just have one goal and 11 points this season for the Nashville Predators, this is a move the Leafs could make with a few of their assets for cheap while looking for another deal down the line.

The Maple Leafs also have interest in the likes of Noah Hanifin and Chris Tanev from Calgary, while having a big need in net too, so this could be a good move for cheap, but if the asking price is high, it's likely Toronto pivot to another top target.