Nick Cousins among several forwards that could replace Tyler Bertuzzi in Toronto

Brad Treliving spent much of the early offseason signing and trading players outside the Core 4. However, there was one position he left off his deal roster: third-line center. This was the position Tyler Bertuzzi held until signing away to the Chicago Blackhawks in free agency.

Thankfully, with most of the summer trading long past, the Toronto Maple Leafs still have options. Among these players is the highly controversial Nick Cousins . Widely considered the most hated center in the league, Nick Cousins provides a lot of brute force that Toronto lacks in their defensive play. Despite a dip in production over the last season, he was able to play 12 games in the playoffs, becoming part of Florida Panthers history in winning the franchise's first Stanley Cup.

Another option Toronto could head is with Chicago Blackhawks forward Rem Pitlick. Though he has only 132 career NHL games, Rem Pitclick has a season with 37 points recorded across the Minnesota Wild and Montreal Canadien in 66 games. He has spent most of his time signed to Chicago scoring for the Rockford Ice Hogs in the AHL

Lastly, Chris Tierney of the New Jersey Devils could prove dangerous as Toronto's third-line center. Though the last few years Chris Tierney has struggled to make a showing, either goal or appearance-wise, he has two seasons with at least 40 points. Given his grit and veteran status on the ice, he could be a solid replacement for Tyler Bertuzzi.

With their need for a third-line center and these players' need for a contract, it is time for Brad Treliving to start considering a PTO. Hopefully, he can make the move for the right player before another team takes their chance.

Source: Maple Leafs Daily
Maple Leafs could target league's most hated center to fill 3rd line C position