NHL Rumors: 2 Maple Leafs Trade Candidates

The Toronto Maple Leafs have some big decisions to make prior to the March 21 trade deadline as general manager Kyle Dubas needs to determine just how bad he wants to upgrade his goaltending and defense. The team is letting in far too many goals of late and the trend has become worrisome for Leafs Nation. Let's take a look at two roster players who could be dealt for some help:

Alexander Kerfoot

The versatile winger is a prime trade candidate because he's playing a depth role and making $3.5 million this season and next. The Maple Leafs need cap space to get creative on the trade market and even though it's the money everyone points to in Toronto, Kerfoot is one hell of a hockey player who holds value on the trade market. He's recorded 42 points in 58 games this season and it's impressive because he never gets a look on the power play. While he won't be the focal point of any trade package, Kerfoot will likely be included if the Leafs go big fish hunting.

Petr Mrazek

Even with Jack Campbell being hurt with a rib injury that looks to keep him out of the lineup for a couple of weeks, Mrazek hasn't been good enough to date in Toronto and the team needs to consider an upgrade. He's signed for two more seasons at $3.8 million so there's even some potential the team retains a small portion of his salary to entice other teams. It's likely if Mrazek gets dealt the package going will also include top prospects, meanwhile a starting netminder would be coming back the other way.

Desperate times call for desperate measures as Dubas and company are finding out the hard way at the moment in Toronto. They need help on defense and need to find someone who can consistently make a save when it matters the most. If the Maple Leafs remain quiet at the trade deadline, there chances of getting out of the first round of the playoffs are going to be slim.

Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports