The NHL trade deadline will be here in a few months, and the rumor mill is churning. One name that has surfaced in recent speculation is Montreal Canadiens defenseman David Savard, with reports linking him to the Toronto Maple Leafs.
NHL insider Jonas Siegel of The Athletic recently highlighted the Leafs’ need for a reliable defenseman to partner with Morgan Rielly, suggesting Savard could be the ideal fit. Savard, a veteran presence on the blue line, brings a wealth of experience and a physical edge to his game. His stay-at-home style and defensive solidity would complement Rielly’s offensive tendencies, potentially creating a formidable pairing for the Leafs.
David Savard to the Leafs? Analyzing the Potential Trade
At 34 years old, Savard carries a cap hit of $3.5 million and is set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. This makes him an attractive target for contenders looking to bolster their defensive depth without making a long-term commitment. Leafs GM Brad Treliving is expected to be active in the trade market as he seeks to address the team’s defensive needs.
However, a potential trade between the Canadiens and Maple Leafs presents an interesting dynamic. These two teams share a historic rivalry, and trading within the division, especially to a direct competitor, is often seen as a last resort. It raises the question: would Montreal be willing to trade Savard to their arch-rivals?
Adding another layer to this intriguing storyline is the reported interest from other Canadian teams. The Edmonton Oilers and Vancouver Canucks have also been linked to Savard, potentially creating a bidding war for his services.
While the Oilers and Canucks could certainly use Savard’s defensive prowess, the Leafs’ need seems more pressing. Their defensive struggles have been well-documented, and adding a veteran presence like Savard could be the key to solidifying their blue line for a deep playoff run.
This situation warrants close attention as the trade deadline draws nearer. Will Savard find himself in a Leafs jersey come March? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: the trade deadline is shaping up to be an exciting period for Leafs fans and the NHL as a whole.
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