3 Maple Leafs Trade Targets to Help Top Six

The Toronto Maple Leafs are looking to improve their forward group before the March 3 trade deadline. Recently it was reported by Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet that the Maple Leafs were likely going to make multiple trades before the deadline and will likely be adding a forward. Here's a few players who could help the top six for head coach Sheldon Keefe:

James van Riemsdyk

There's been a lot of chatter about JVR heading back to the Maple Leafs and at this point it's starting to make some sense. The Flyers could retain half of his $7 million salary for this season, he's a left winger who could play alongside John Tavares and Mitch Marner and his net-front presence is something the Leafs could use more of. It won't cost a ton to trade for JVR, so this is a move Dubas and company should be considering.

Andrei Kuzmenko

The Canucks are open for business and Andrei Kuzmenko isn't getting enough attention as a prime trade candidate out of Vancouver. He's making less than $1 million, he's a pending free agent and he's having himself a fine rookie season, putting up 32 points in 35 games. Certainly someone the cash-strapped Maple Leafs should have their eye on.

Nino Niederreiter

The Maple Leafs would be wise to inquire about Nashville Predators forward Nino Niederreiter. He'd be a great fit on the team's second line as he's a big body, physical, left-handed and can score. He's signed through next season at $4 million and without any trade protection can be moved at will. The Preds are likely going to sell at the trade deadline and the Maple Leafs should be buying here. 12 goals in 35 games this season after 24 in 75 last season, Niederreiter would look great in blue and white.

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