Brad Treliving and the Toronto Maple Leafs Reveal Two Key Players That Are Untouchable in Trade Negotiations

PUBLICATION

Pat Quinn
December 13, 2023 (3:26 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

It is no surprise that the Maple Leafs are looking to add or move some players. It has been out in the rumour mill for a long time. Toronto was talked about being in on both Nikita Zadorov and Chris Tanev, but with Zadorov going to Vancouver it ended the trade Toronto had on the table.

What the Maple Leafs are looking for on the trade front

The Maple Leafs are mostly looking for help on the back end, and many teams know that. A common phrase in NHL circles is that when other GMs know you need help in an area they only send you anchors unless you want to pay a premium.

"As recently reported by Friedman on 'Saturday Headlines', the Flyers were asked about both defencemen Nick Seeler and Sean Walker together as the two have formed a very formidable second pair this season and have been integral in the Flyers' success. Asking around about this, I got mixed responses on who this team could be."

"One person mentioned the Leafs, as Seeler and Walker are cheaper consolation prizes to Zadorov and Tanev. Given the Leafs' interest in both Calgary defencemen, another source said that it'd «make sense» the Leafs would have their eyes on another duo of rearguards in a package."

With the Flyers doing much better than everyone expected, and in a playoff position, it is highly unlikely they will part with a player in the line up easily.

Leaf prospects that are off limits in trade talks

The Fourth Period's Anthony Di Marco talked about Toronto's trade issue at the moment:

"Several league executives told me Treliving has not tipped his hand as to what he's willing to pay to acquire, which aligns with colleague Pagnotta's recent report � not just for Tanev, but any defenceman at this juncture. Toronto doesn't have a ton of assets to offer but are unwilling to move the few that do garner value."

"Prospect forwards Easton Cowen and Fraser Minten were described to me as 'non-starters' for the Leafs. The coy approach of Toronto has left more than one team a little frustrated with trade talks."

The Maple Leafs don't have a second round pick for the next three seasons or a first round pick in 2025. With Easton Cowen, last seasons first round selection, and Fraser Minten, the 2021 second round pick, both exceeding expectations and looking like future Leafs. It makes sense to not include both in trades, especially if it is just for an end of season rental.

As Read On Maple Leafs Insider - Leafs send a clear message to teams regarding their best trade chips