In the ever-dynamic NHL trade market, a new NHL trade rumor has emerged that involves a notable trade between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens.
The projected trade could potentially see a shift in the roster that might impact the performance and strategies of both teams significantly. Here’s a breakdown of the speculated trade and the projected lineup for the Leafs post-trade.
What the Montreal Canadiens would receive:
Defenseman Conor Timmins – has a salary cap hit of $1.1 million with two years remaining on the contract.
Forward Calle Jarnkrok – has a salary cap hit of $2.1 million with three years remaining on the contract.
2024 1st-round draft pick.
What the Toronto Maple Leafs would receive:
Defenseman Arber Xhekaj – has a salary cap hit of $828,333 and will be an RFA at the end of the season.
Forward Sean Monahan – has a salary cap hit of $1.985 million and will be a UFA at the end of the season.
Projected Leafs Lineup Post-Trade:
Following the speculated trade, the Leafs’ lineup is projected to undergo a reshuffle. Here’s how the lineup is envisioned:
Forwards:
- Knies – Matthews – Nylander
- Bertuzzi – Tavares – Marner
- Robertson – Monahan – Domi
- Gregor – Kampf – Reeves
Defense:
- Reilly – Xhekaj
- Brodie – Klingberg
- McCabe – Liligren
The inclusion of Sean Monahan and Arber Xhekaj seems to bolster the center and defensive positions respectively for the Leafs. Monahan, slotting in as a center on the third line, could potentially enhance the offensive depth, while Xhekaj pairing up with Reilly could fortify the defensive structure.
Why the NHL trade rumor works for both teams:
The speculated trade seems to aim at addressing specific tactical needs for both teams. For the Leafs, this trade could provide a balanced mix of youth and experience in the lineup, potentially elevating their game in pursuit of a deep playoff run. On the flip side, the Canadiens acquiring a 1st round draft pick could be a strategic move toward building for the future.
What are NHL fans saying about a potential Leafs and Canadiens trade?
Please make this trade would love to see the Hamilton boy in a Leafs jersey.
No way Montreal makes this deal. Leafs would have to add in more for this trade to happen.
The Leafs top six are too soft. Getting Xhekaj does not solve the Leafs forward problem.
Pure comedy.
We wouldn’t give you Xhekaj for Knies and a 1st.
Pretty soon we will even have 2 Xhekaj’s on the team 😉