The Toronto Maple Leafs are actively looking for scoring help as the NHL trade deadline approaches, and the latest rumor has sent shockwaves through the hockey world. The Leafs have been linked to Ryan O’Reilly and Scott Laughton, but according to NHL insider Kevin Weekes, there’s a new, surprising name in the mix—Brad Marchand.
Could the Toronto Maple Leafs Actually Trade for Brad Marchand?
In a stunning revelation on TSN’s That’s Hockey, Kevin Weekes reported that Toronto is exploring the possibility of acquiring Brad Marchand from the Boston Bruins. The idea of Marchand, one of the Leafs’ most hated rivals, donning the blue and white would have been unthinkable just a few years ago. But according to Weekes, it’s not as far-fetched as it seems.
“If you can’t beat them, have them join you,” Weekes said. “Boston has been Toronto’s kryptonite in the playoffs, and Marchand would be the perfect fit for the Leafs.”
Marchand, 36, remains one of the NHL’s most effective agitators and top offensive weapons. He has consistently put up elite numbers, all while frustrating opponents with his gritty, relentless style of play. The thought of him teaming up with Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and William Nylander is enough to make Leafs fans dream of playoff success.
But would Boston actually trade Marchand to their biggest rival? That’s the major roadblock. The Bruins are still contending for a wild card spot in the Eastern Conference and moving their captain midseason would be a monumental shift. However, Weekes also pointed out that the New Jersey Devils could be another landing spot for Marchand if Boston decides to move on.
The Maple Leafs would need to make a significant offer to pry Marchand away from Boston. A package including a first-round pick, a top prospect, and a roster player might be required to even get Bruins GM Don Sweeney to listen.
Would Marchand waive his no-movement clause to join Toronto? That’s another question altogether. But the fact that his name is even being mentioned in connection to the Leafs shows that GM Brad Treliving is willing to think outside the box.
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