NHL Rumors: Maple Leafs & Blue Jackets Linked to Trade

According to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period the Toronto Maple Leafs may have trade interest in acquiring Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov.

“Beyond Chychrun, the Kings are believed to have checked in on Columbus Blue Jackets stay-at-home defenceman Vladislav Gavrikov, who is in the final year of his deal. Columbus is reportedly asking for a first-round draft pick as part of a package.” - The Fourth Period
— CBJ Center (@CBJcenter) January 3, 2023

Gavrikov is a 6-foot-3 stay-at-home defenseman who is in the final season of his contract, currently earning $2.8 million against the cap. The Russian blueliner does not hold any trade protection and can be moved at will. There's so much interest in his services the Blue Jackets are apparently trying to get a first-round pick as part of the package in the deal. A steep price considering Gavrikov is a defensive defenseman who is known for killing penalties and blocking shots.

Toronto isn't likely to hand over a first rounder for a stay at home d-man, however could work out a bigger deal with Columbus to potential include other pieces. The likes of Sean Kuraly and Gustav Nyquist could interest the Leafs, however due to cash constraints and a hard cap, it's very unlikely we see these two teams make a deal before March 3.

Elliotte Friedman on OilersNow today once again says the Oilers have real interest in Vladislav Gavrikov and he's one of the guys that the Oilers really like. The price would be around a 1st round pick and a 3rd round pick for Gavrikov (likely 50% retained salary). https://t.co/VOyyBHboYg
— Oilers Access (@oilersaccess) December 30, 2022