With the Toronto Maple Leafs suffering injuries to Chris Tanev, Marshall Rifai, and Nick Blankenburg, there are plenty of interesting options on the trade market.
The Maple Leafs need a right-handed defenseman right now. It's no secret. Tanev is out, and his recent history suggests that injuries will continue to be an issue for him.
Meanwhile, Nick Blankenburg is going to miss some time after an injury a couple of nights ago. Both players are on the injured reserve, and the Leafs could use some depth.
There are plenty of options on the market right now. Although there is one player in San Jose who has largely been overlooked as a trade option.
That player is Michael Kesselring. The 6'5" defenseman once had a 29-point season with the Utah Mammoth. Furthermore, he recently had a brief stint with the Buffalo Sabres, which was plagued by injuries.
Why Kesselring fits the Maple Leafs?
Throughout his career, the 26-year-old has always been exceptionally defensively responsible. His career plus/minus is positive, and his teams have never had any complaints about his ability to shut down plays.
Given the Leafs' struggles in their own zone this season, this is exactly the kind of defenseman the team needs right now. Moreover, his 29-point season in Utah proves he can also play strong offensively.
The Leafs' weakness on the blue line has also extended to the offensive elements of the game. Kesselring could certainly help fix that.
What would the Leafs have to give up?
Unlike Simon Edvinsson and Alexander Nikishin, this trade would not break the bank when it comes to giving up specific assets.
The Maple Leafs could probably get away with giving up futures or depth pieces of their roster. Perhaps even Max Domi could be considered given his lack of place in the lineup.
Whatever the case may be, the Maple Leafs should at the very least give this some thought. The team needs an upgrade, and this would certainly do it.
Do you believe the Toronto Maple Leafs should pursue Michael Kesselring?
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