NHL Rumors: 3 Maple Leafs Who Could Be Moved Before the Deadline
The Toronto Maple Leafs are a team to watch as we approach the trade deadline in a couple of weeks. They are expected to be open to a number of different types of trades and while their goaltending continues to struggle of late, it's likely they stand pat in the crease and make deals including three specific players.
Forward Alexander Kerfoot has found himself demoted to the team's fourth line of late and with the recent performance of top prospect Nick Robertson in his former spot on the second line a deal could be around the corner. Kerfoot is making $3.5 million through next season and the Maple Leafs would also love to free up some cap space as soon as possible. The 27-year-old is a versatile forward as he can play both wings and is very comfortable playing down the middle. Because of this general manager Kyle Dubas knows he's a valuable piece and won't give him away for nothing, regardless of how much ice-time he's been getting of late.
So far in 55 games the veteran forward has recorded 38 points and what's even more impressive is the fact he doesn't play on the power play. Kerfoot has no-trade protection that kicks in July 1 where he can avoid 10 teams of his choice. It's extremely likely he's dealt out of Toronto before that kicks in.
Two other players the Maple Leafs are discussing in deals are defensemen Justin Holl and Travis Dermott. While neither would fetch a huge return the team isn't satisfied with their current defense group and are looking to upgrade before the March 21 trade deadline. These two have been on the trade market all season and recently talks have heated up. Leafs Nation can expect to see some changes to occur over these next two weeks and Kerfoot, Holl and Dermott will likely be involved.
Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
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