3 Potential Trade Destinations for Maple Leafs' Pontus Holmberg

Wednesday, February 19, 2025 , , ,

Pontus Holmberg is expected to become the odd man out up front for the Toronto Maple Leafs, as GM Brad Treliving is on the hunt for some upgrades down the middle of the ice. Holmberg is in a battle with Connor Dewar, Steven Lorentz and David Kampf for ice-time on the team's fourth line, which will be even tougher to come by once Calle Jarnkrok returns.

On the season, the 25-year-old Holmberg has recorded two goals and eight points in 43 games, averaging 13:07 of ice-time, including 1:18 while shorthanded. Holmberg's a defensive-first type of center, who has shown flashes of offensively brilliance throughout his Leafs' tenure. Here's three potential trade destinations for the former sixth-round pick:

Philadelphia Flyers

The Maple Leafs have been linked to Scott Laughton this season and if they're able to land the third-line center, look for Holmberg to be included in the trade, along with prospect Fraser Minten. The Leafs are up against the cap and have Jarnkrok and over $2 million AAV coming back soon, so there's no doubt should they add before the deadline, they'll need to subtract from their current roster.

Anaheim Ducks

The Ducks are discussing just about everyone on their roster right now, and have irons in the fire on Trevor Zegras and Ryan Strome. Holmberg could get a chance at a much bigger role in Anaheim and perhaps with the change of scenery, it could spark some more production from his game offensively. 

St. Louis Blues

If the Blues deal Brayden Schenn to the Leafs it's going to take a substantial trade package heading to St. Louis, which could easily include Holmberg heading the other way. He's shown in the past he can produce more, scoring seven goals in 54 games last season, so perhaps with the Blues, and some more ice-time, he can once again hit a 15-20 goal pace.

Photo credit:  Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
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