Maple Leafs Rumors: Recent Trade Talks Focused on Specific Need

The Toronto Maple Leafs enjoyed one of the best Novembers in franchise history and after a slow October, now head into December with a 15-5-5 record. The team is far from a finished product as they've been dealing with a number of injuries and some underachieving players. Sounds like a trade will certainly be on the way as general manager Kyle Dubas has been busy of late working the phones.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman mentioned the Maple Leafs movement in his recent 32 Thoughts article and had this to say about the rumblings out of Toronto:

Toronto’s on an excellent run despite a banged-up defence and goaltending that just recently returned to full health. The Maple Leafs are fourth in the NHL just weeks after we had the entire organization looking for new jobs. They have time to let this play out, but it’s safe to say they will save their best assets for whatever they feel they might need on the blueline. There’s the possibility of adding a left-shot scorer, but that’s not the priority and I think they’d also like to show Matthew Knies there’s a path when he’s ready to leave NCAA Minnesota

From all accounts, we can confirm the Maple Leafs have been and will continue to look for a left-handed shot forward who can score. The team isn't satisfied with the early return on Nick Robertson and Alexander Kerfoot this season. Kerfoot, among several others are pending unrestricted free agents, so there's going to be tons of room for Knies next season.

Toronto also lost Calle Jarnkrok to injury on Wednesday night, as he'll go for more imaging on Thursday regarding his groin injury. Expect to see trade talks pick up in Toronto, as ideally, they find an offensive left winger who they can slot into their second line.

Some potential names include Frank Vatrano of the Anaheim Ducks, Timo Meier of the San Jose Sharks and Andreas Athanasiou of the Chicago Blackhawks.