NHL Rumors: Maple Leafs Defenseman Emerging as Trade Candidate

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Justin Holl has emerged as a prime trade candidate for the 2022-23 season. The right-handed blueliner is a pending unrestricted free agent, making $2 million against the cap this season.

With restricted free-agent defenseman Rasmus Sandin still unsigned and the Maple Leafs currently over the salary cap, Holl has been linked to several trades as Toronto looks to make room for Sandin on their crowded blue line.

Last season the 30-year-old Holl recorded 23 points in 69 games and has become a polarizing figure in Toronto. His interference penalty while John Tavares scored in Game 7 of the first-round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs may have been the last straw for Leafs Nation after a long season of heckling Holl.

Toronto has Timothy Liljegren who appears to be ready to take the next step, along with top prospect Topi Niemela who was a star once again at the World Juniors for Finland and appears set to battle for a spot at training camp in a couple of weeks.