The Toronto Maple Leafs, struggling in the standings, are poised to become sellers ahead of the NHL's Olympic break and the March 6 trade deadline. Reports highlight several pending unrestricted free agents and underperforming players as potential trade candidates. Management has initiated discussions, though no major deals are imminent.
The Toronto Maple Leafs sit second-last in the Atlantic Division, seven points out of the Eastern Conference's final wild-card spot, with a 3-5-2 record in their last 10 games. As the Olympic break approaches on Wednesday, the team is expected to explore trades, according to NHL insiders. Elliotte Friedman reported that even a potential win over the Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday would not alter their plans to sell at the deadline.
Among the candidates, forward Bobby McMann stands out. The 29-year-old left-winger has 18 goals and 31 points in 55 games, on pace to surpass his career highs from 2024-25, all at a $1.35-million cap hit. Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun believes McMann could fetch the best return among upcoming unrestricted free agents (UFAs) like Scott Laughton, Calle Jarnkrok, and defenseman Troy Stecher. Friedman and Nick Kypreos noted interest from teams including the Oilers, with McMann potentially seeking around $5 million annually in a new deal. Kypreos suggested the Leafs might secure a second-round pick or more, though waiting until the deadline could maximize value despite risks like injury.
Goaltender Anthony Stolarz is another option, with a 6-7-1 record, 3.67 goals-against average, and .876 save percentage this season. Kypreos indicated the team would prefer to move him now for an upgrade, but only if the return justifies it, given alternatives like Joseph Woll or Dennis Hildeby.
Defensemen Oliver Ekman-Larsson ($3.5 million through 2027-28, 16-team no-trade list) and Brandon Carlo (one year left at $3.485 million of $4.1 million cap hit, eight-team no-trade list) are also in consideration. Carlo has expressed a desire to stay, enjoying his time with the club. Broader questions surround captain Auston Matthews, who remains committed per his camp, and Morgan Rielly, whose declining performance might yield a second-round pick and prospect, possibly with salary retention. Friedman confirmed the Leafs have started league-wide talks, but nothing "earth-shattering" has emerged.
