New report could put teams like the Maple Leafs in a tough spot landing Dougie Hamilton

The Toronto Maple Leafs are one team linked to New Jersey Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton, as the 32-year-old former all-star was made a healthy scratch earlier in the week by the Devils.

With a trade likely to come as Hamilton appears outside of the Devils lineup, speculation that Hamilton can soon be dealt has been emerging, and appearing likely as things look to be done between Hamilton and New Jersey.

But, obvious restrictions make a deal for Dougie Hamilton a challenge, with Hamilton still a player who could commend a hefty return as a RHD who can still play, but is in need of a change of scenery.

There is also the question mark regarding his $9M yearly salary that extends until 2028, something that could be an intensely uncertain variable in trade discussions.

But there is one major factor that will dictate any deal for Dougie Hamilton, something that would present a challenge for a team such as Toronto, as well as a few others.

According to reporting from Elliotte Friedman, one challenge that exists on Toronto's end for Dougie Hamilton is uncertainty if Hamilton would want to play for a Canadian team.

Hamilton, who played three seasons with the Calgary Flames, is not certain to waive his no-move clause for a Canadian club, with Hamilton unlikely to return to an old team.

The three teams Hamilton has played for in the past include the Flames, the Boston Bruins, and Carolina Hurricanes. The Metropolitan Division leading Hurricanes might be the likeliest, but Friedman indicates Hamilton is looking for a new opportunity.

It's unclear if Hamilton, a Toronto native, would waive his no-move for the Leafs, but the recently streaking team make adding a player like Hamilton more likely as the Leafs edge closer to the playoff race in the east.

A connection exists from Calgary from then-Flames GM Brad Treliving, who brought Hamilton to Calgary, but also moved him out.

The Toronto Maple Leafs pursuit of Dougie Hamilton already looked uncertain, and the new reports make clear that acquiring Hamilton won't be easy for a team like Toronto.

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