Maple Leafs and Golden Knights Consider Major Trade for Offense Boost
The Toronto Maple Leafs are on the lookout for a top-six forward, and they might find a solution in the trade market. Recent discussions have surfaced regarding a potential blockbuster deal that would see the Maple Leafs acquiring Brett Howden from the Vegas Golden Knights. This proposed trade has the potential to be a game-changer for both teams.
Proposed Trade Dynamics
In the envisioned deal, the Maple Leafs would receive Howden, a versatile center who could easily transition to a left-wing position on the second line. This adjustment could address Toronto’s pressing need for increased scoring depth. Last season, Howden showcased his offensive capabilities by netting 23 goals and providing 17 assists for a total of 40 points over 80 games. He also contributed during the playoffs, scoring three goals in 11 games. Additionally, with Howden entering the first year of a five-year, $12.5 million contract, he presents an affordable option for the Maple Leafs as they seek to enhance their roster without straining their salary cap.
On the flip side, the Golden Knights would receive Brandon Carlo, a shutdown defenseman who could fill a crucial gap in their defensive lineup. With a surplus of NHL-caliber defensemen, the Maple Leafs have the luxury of trading one to bolster their forward corps. Carlo, who is currently in the fifth year of a six-year, $24.6 million deal, recorded 1 goal and 11 assists for 12 points across 83 games last season. His presence would be invaluable to Vegas, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Alex Pietrangelo’s career following his recent announcement to step away from hockey.
Addressing Team Needs
For Toronto, acquiring a top-six forward is a clear priority, especially as they recover from the loss of Mitch Marner. NHL insider Nick Kypreos highlighted Carlo as a potential trade candidate, suggesting that despite the significant cost to acquire him, his right-handed, minute-eating abilities would attract considerable interest in the market. Kypreos noted, “It may be hard to believe the Leafs would trade away Carlo so soon after paying a steep price to acquire him… Right-shot, minute-munching defensemen will always have a market in the NHL.”
The Maple Leafs are well-positioned with nine NHL-ready defensemen, including Carlo, Chris Tanev, Morgan Rielly, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Jake McCabe, Simon Benoit, Henry Thurn, Philippe Myers, and Matt Benning. This depth allows Toronto to explore trading one of them in exchange for scoring help, a move that could significantly alter their offensive outlook.
Golden Knights’ Defensive Needs
For the Golden Knights, the urgency to strengthen their defense has increased, especially in light of Pietrangelo’s uncertain future. The veteran defenseman has shared the toll that recent years have taken on his physical well-being, indicating that the intensity of professional hockey may no longer be viable for him. “The past few years have been very challenging on my physical well-being… After exploring options with doctors as well as my family, it’s been advised to remove the intensity of hockey to see if my body can improve,” he explained. Pietrangelo’s retirement would leave a substantial void, making Carlo a fitting acquisition to maintain the team’s defensive integrity.
In summary, a potential trade between the Maple Leafs and Golden Knights could provide both teams with the necessary pieces to address their respective needs. Toronto aims to enhance their scoring capabilities, while Vegas seeks to solidify their defense in the wake of significant roster changes. As discussions continue, both franchises are poised to make impactful moves ahead of the upcoming season.
