Maple Leafs Could Be in Prime Position to Land Top-Six Forward at Trade Deadline
Photo credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
A new report from NHL Insider Pierre LeBrun shows that the New York Islanders and Anders Lee may be willing to part ways if things go south, as Toronto keeps watch.
All the talk the past few months seems to have been centered around the Toronto Maple Leafs and their desire to add a top-six forward to their ranks to help offset the loss of Mitch Marner.
Linked to several big names from superstars to old faces, it seems that while they have been attached to everyone, nothing substantial has arisen yet.
Pierre LeBrun Reveals Anders Lee's Availability Ahead Of 2025-26
However, that might end up being a reality later down the line according to a new report from NHL Insider Pierre LeBrun.
In a recent article for The Athletic, LeBrun explained that if the New York Islanders are struggling this season and are looking to move on from veteran Anders Lee, he could be available at the deadline and seems open to a move:
If the Islanders aren't in a playoff spot closer to the trade deadline, perhaps Lee would be open to a trade via his 15-team no-trade list.
But if the Islanders are in playoff contention, and Darche does believe they've got a shot at a playoff spot, then both sides get could together and talk extension in the second half.
All options are on the table. And neither side seems particularly stressed by it. I don't think we'll see anything imminent on this file.
But if the Islanders are in playoff contention, and Darche does believe they've got a shot at a playoff spot, then both sides get could together and talk extension in the second half.
All options are on the table. And neither side seems particularly stressed by it. I don't think we'll see anything imminent on this file.
While there is nothing imminent in tow when it comes to a Lee deal, the Islanders are in spot where they can either end up competing for a wild card spot, or tumble off a cliff and find themselves waving the white flag.
Whatever the case, the Toronto Maple Leafs need to keep an eye on things.
Why Toronto Should Make A Move For Anders Lee
One of the more understated and quiet offensive players over his career, Lee has always been consistent, reliable, and most of all durable.
For a team that has health concerns, adding in a player who can not only contribute a good 15-20 goals combined between the regular season and playoffs, but someone who will be able to play every game wherever needed.
Since missing a slew of games in 2020-21, Lee has only missed a total of seven games over his last four season, while averaging 26.5 goals over the span as well.
The 35-year old has 507 points in 841 games (289 goals, 218 assists) and is not afraid to get physical either; he averages 108 hits for his career and would be a perfect side piece for John Tavares and William Nylander.
He makes only $7-million and is an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season, so he won't exactly be the most expensive option nor cost a ton in terms of assets.
He's the exact type of player Toronto can use in their top-six, and while he might not bring the same playmaking prowess as Marner did, his goal-scoring ability and consistency is what's needed most.
Anders Lee might not be on the way out right now, but if things start to free fall don't be surprised if you see Brad Treliving throw his name into the sweepstakes.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 29 | 1697 ANSWERS Maple Leafs Could Be in Prime Position to Land Top-Six Forward at Trade Deadline Would Anders Lee make sense as a trade option for the Maple Leafs? | ||
| Yes | 764 | 45 % |
| No | 933 | 55 % |
| List of polls | ||
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