NHL Trade Rumors: Maple Leafs Linked To Three Defensemen

Friday, February 07, 2025

The Toronto Maple Leafs are looking at trade options for a right-shot defenseman ahead of the March 7 deadline, with The Athletic's Jonas Siegel and Chris Johnston linking them to David Savard, Jamie Oleksiak, and Brandon Carlo. 

With Jani Hakanpää’s uncertain status and questions about their blue-line depth, the Leafs are searching for a reliable partner for Morgan Rielly. 

Johnston noted that while the team has improved defensively, they "still have some question marks" and could use another physical, shutdown presence. Given Toronto’s limited cap flexibility and trade assets, finding the right fit will require creativity.

Savard, 34, is a pending UFA with a $3.5 million cap hit and has drawn interest from multiple teams as a veteran with playoff experience. 

His game has declined, but Toronto could see him as a short-term rental if Montreal lowers its asking price. 

Oleksiak, a 6-foot-7, 250-pound defenseman, plays the left side but can shift to the right when needed. With Seattle struggling to stay in the playoff race, Siegel believes GM Ron Francis could be open to moving him. 

“The Kraken are going nowhere fast, and management is believed to be under increasing pressure from ownership to show signs of progress,” Johnston said, suggesting that a shake-up could be coming.

Carlo remains a long shot due to his importance to the Bruins, but with two years left on his $4.1 million contract, he would be a longer-term solution. 

Boston’s direction at the deadline remains uncertain, but Johnston pointed out that “the Bruins are staring down the possibility of a quick retool,” which could open the door for a trade. 

As Johnston put it, “You miss every shot you don’t take,” and while Carlo and Oleksiak may be more difficult acquisitions, Savard appears to be the most realistic option.

Photo Credit: Natalie Reid-Imagn Images

Go To: NFL Rumors | NBA Rumors | MLB Rumors