The Toronto Maple Leafs are anticipated to be busy before the March 7 trade deadline. They’re looking to strengthen their roster, particularly at center and on defense, with a focus on adding a third-line center. According to NHL insider Chris Johnston, the Maple Leafs have expressed interest in acquiring Buffalo Sabres star center.
According to Chris Johnston on The Chris Johnston Show, around 20 teams have inquired about top star this season, including Calgary, Vancouver, Montreal, Toronto, and Detroit. Johnston joked that it might be easier to list the teams that haven’t reached out.
Following Johnston’s report, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman confirmed Toronto’s interest in Sabres star, adding that the Maple Leafs are also exploring options for second-line centers.
“I think they’re weighing all of that stuff,” Friedman said on 32 Thoughts. “I think they would love to see if they can swing for a 2C, but it just might not be possible.”
He is currently in the second year of his seven-year, $49.7 million contract with Buffalo, is an established second-line center. The former first-round pick has tallied 10 goals and 16 assists for 26 points in 53 games this season and could benefit from a fresh start.
Cozens is a Likely Trade Candidate For the Sabres
Despite being under contract long-term, Dylan Cozens has surfaced in trade discussions.
In his trade bait board for The Athletic, Chris Johnston ranked Cozens fifth, noting the surge in interest as the March 7 trade deadline approaches.
“With the Sabres languishing at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings and in need of some kind of shakeup, there have been plenty of outside inquiries about Cozens,” Johnston wrote. “Two-thirds of NHL teams have at least checked in on his availability. Even amid a down season, the 6-foot-3 center holds plenty of appeal. He’s got great speed and skill for a player his size and already has a 30-goal NHL campaign under his belt at age 23. Here’s the rub, though: It’s going to take a meaningful offer to pry him out of Buffalo. Something built around an established player, not just prospects. And, so far that hasn’t materialized.”
While Cozens remains a hot topic in trade talks, Buffalo would likely demand a significant return given his age, skill set, and long-term contract.
Maple Leafs Looking to Improve Roster
The Toronto Maple Leafs, currently sitting second in the Atlantic Division, are expected to be active ahead of the trade deadline. General manager Brad Treliving emphasized his ongoing efforts to improve the team, both through external moves and internal evaluations.
“You’re always watching. I know a lot gets made of the deadline, but you’re always looking at ways you can improve your team. And it’s not always just external,” Treliving said on January 13. “With the injuries we’ve had up front this year, we’ve had the chance to see what we have internally, which is important. Some guys have stepped up and played well, giving us insight into our organizational depth.”
The Maple Leafs will play their final game before the 4 Nations Face-Off on February 8 against the Vancouver Canucks.