NHL Rumors: 2 Toronto Maple Leafs Trade Candidates

Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Kyle Dubas is never shy to make the bold move. Expect more of the same this season as the Leafs GM enters a contract year, working for an extension for next season and beyond. Toronto is trying to get out of the first-round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time in almost two decades, and expect to see them active in the trade market. With talent coming in, players have to leave, here's two Maple Leafs who could be traded this season:

Alexander Kerfoot

If the Maple Leafs are going to add anyone with an expensive contract, Kerfoot is likely going to have to be included just based on money alone. He's a pending unrestricted free agent who is penciled in on the team's second-line left wing. Kerfoot recorded 51 points last season, and doesn't see a lick of opportunity on the team's power play. 

 John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

With the emergence of Pierre Engvall, and the high expectations for Nick Robertson and eventually Matthew Knies, Toronto has some options moving forward. Kerfoot's no-trade protection has now kicked in and he has submitted a list of 10 teams he'd like to avoid. Expect to hear his name tied to trade rumors leading up to this season's deadline.

Justin Holl

The Maple Leafs have a crowded blue line and that doesn't even include Rasmus Sandin who is a restricted free agent without a contract. Expect to see someone moved and it could very well be Justin Holl who is entering the final season of his current contract, paying him $2 million against the books. With the likes of Sandin, Mark Giordano, Jake Muzzin, TJ Brodie, Timothy Liljegren and Morgan Rielly, Toronto appears set for this season. They also have depth pieces in Jordie Benn and Victor Mete, and next summer top prospect Topi Niemela arrives. Expect to see the Maple Leafs move Holl and it could even be before puck drop opening night.

Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports