NHL Rumors: Maple Leafs Reject Stars Trade Offer

The Toronto Maple Leafs and Dallas Stars have been rumored to be in touch lately regarding Stars defenseman John Klingberg. The chatter surrounded a potential trade of the pending free agent to the Maple Leafs, however from all accounts it sounds like it was a quick conversation.

According to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet, the Stars wanted the Maple Leafs to include a first-round pick in the trade and general manager Kyle Dubas and company have no interest moving their #1 pick for a rental this season. This comes on the heels of Toronto moving out their first rounder last season to acquire Nick Foligno from the Columbus Blue Jackets. A deal that resulted in no goals in the regular season or playoffs from Foligno.

The Stars and Maple Leafs continue to be linked to one another as Dallas battles for a playoff spot while Toronto tries to tinker their roster. Klingberg requested a trade earlier in the season and doesn't appear to be backing off his stance.

John Klingberg, reportedly desiring a trade, is an offensive defenceman with excellent puck skills who hasn't quite been his best self since Rick Bowness took over in Dallas. One of the higher-ceiling rentals out there. #TexasHockey pic.twitter.com/pI0naqlIF7
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) January 7, 2022

Meanwhile the Leafs appear to be moving on and will focus on other options ahead of the March 21 trade deadline as they are dealing with some recent news around defenseman Jake Muzzin who could be out for the remainder of the regular season with a concussion. This would allow the Leafs to move his $5.65 million to LTIR and use this money to acquire another big name. Interesting times for Leafs Nation.