NHL Trade Rumors: Maple Leafs Linked To 2 Players

Wednesday, February 19, 2025 ,

Jonas Siegel of The Athletic believes the Toronto Maple Leafs should make a big move at the trade deadline, linking them to St. Louis Blues defenseman Colton Parayko and Nashville Predators center Ryan O’Reilly. 

With the Eastern Conference wide open, Siegel argues that Toronto's biggest needs—a reliable third-line center and a right-handed top-four defenseman—must be addressed if they hope to contend. 

“If there was ever a time for the Leafs to be bold, it’s now,” he wrote, pointing to Parayko’s defensive presence and O’Reilly’s leadership as key additions that could elevate the team.

O’Reilly, who previously played for Toronto in 2023, has a $4.5 million cap hit through 2026-27 and does not have trade protection. 

Siegel believes he would be a significant upgrade over the Leafs’ current third-line options, particularly after Pontus Holmberg failed to register a point in last year’s first-round playoff loss. 

Parayko, meanwhile, is logging over 24 minutes per game for St. Louis and has 12 goals in 55 games, offering size, shot-blocking, and a physical edge Toronto lacks. 

However, his full no-trade clause and long-term contract could make a deal more difficult.

Landing players of this caliber would require Toronto to part with valuable assets, potentially including Fraser Minten, Easton Cowan, Ben Danford, or a 2026 first-round pick. 

While GM Brad Treliving took a more conservative approach last year, Siegel questions whether caution will be enough. “The Leafs aren’t the Flames,” he wrote, suggesting that with Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and William Nylander in their prime, this might be their best chance at a deep playoff run. 

If the front office is serious about competing for a Stanley Cup, Siegel believes they must be willing to make a significant move before the March 7 deadline.

Photo Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Go To: NFL Rumors | NBA Rumors | MLB Rumors