Maple Leafs Rumors: Cost Cutting Move Coming For Toronto

James Mirtle of The Athletic reports that the Toronto Maple Leafs may be on the brink of a cost-cutting trade to navigate looming salary cap constraints. 

With multiple players set to return from injury, including defenseman Jani Hakanpää and forward Connor Dewar, the Leafs’ already crowded roster is creating a cap and roster crunch that GM Brad Treliving will need to address. 

Forward Calle Jarnkrok’s imminent return intensifies the pressure, as his activation will require both cap space and a roster spot. 

According to Mirtle, "The rent is finally due on the Leafs' overcrowded roster," with Treliving likely needing to explore trades or waivers to bring balance to the lineup.

🚨🎙️ Nick Robertson on being out of the lineup:

“I mean, again, I don’t know. I’m not sure if it’s a surprise or not. I just go with it. I don’t take it personally; I just have to work hard.

And again, there are other guys who aren’t playing that probably should be. It’s just… pic.twitter.com/cVkFNU4iVD

— Leafslatest (@Leafslatest) October 30, 2024

One primary candidate for a potential trade is defenseman Matt Benning, who joined the Leafs recently but has become expendable with a $1.25 million cap hit that extends through next season. 

If Treliving cannot find a trade partner, Benning, or possibly Philippe Myers, could be placed on waivers. 

Mirtle also mentions forward David Kämpf and young winger Nick Robertson as potential trade options. Kämpf’s $2.4 million cap hit through 2026-27 would clear significant space if moved, and while Robertson showed promise in the preseason, he has struggled in regular-season play, making him a possible trade asset.

DAVID KAMPF 🚨

Forehand, backhand, fourth-line goal! pic.twitter.com/9ixFG9VeoX

— Omar (@TicTacTOmar) April 2, 2024

Moving Kämpf or Robertson could provide the Leafs with up to $2.6 million in cap space, allowing them to pursue depth additions before the trade deadline. 

Mirtle suggests that such a move would not only resolve their immediate cap issues but also position Toronto to "go big on an impact centerman" later in the season, strengthening their roster for a potential playoff run. 

As Mirtle points out, a smart cost-cutting trade could give the Leafs the flexibility needed to address critical depth areas, easing the current cap pressure while making it easier for future acquisitions.

Photo Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images