NHL Rumors: Maple Leafs Open to Several Different Trades

Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Kyle Dubas has been making his rounds. The Leafs GM has been on a scouting missing that has included stops in Philadelphia, Chicago, Vancouver and throughout some junior clubs as well. Dubas is looking to upgrade his hockey team for the short term and long term and moves are expected before the March 3 trade deadline.

The Maple Leafs are apparently open to just about any type of trade. The team is looking to add a left winger who can play on their top two lines, they're hoping to add a defensive defenseman who can play in their top four and they are likely going to add a cheap veteran netminder as injury concerns to Matt Murray continue.

Dubas would prefer not to deal his first-round pick, however if he wants to hold onto top prospect Matthew Knies, he's likely going to have to depart with the pick. Other trade assets include young center Pontus Holmberg, pending free agents Pierre Engvall and Alexander Kerfoot, along with prospects Joseph Woll and Topi Niemela.

Expect to see Toronto in the mix for Columbus Blue Jackets forward Gustav Nyquist, who won't be ready until the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but could be stashed on LTIR until the postseason. Nyquist is due $5.5 million this season against the cap and could allow for Dubas to get creative on adding more than just one player before the Stanley Cup Playoffs begin.