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16 Mar 2026 10:58:42
So it looks like the Leafs are gonna do the Leafs thing and not finish bottom 5 so here’s some moves I think help the Leafs retool and help change the out look of this team…
At the draft-
Tor: Reilly
Sjs: 2nd (pick 64) Haultenen
Offseason blockbuster-
Tor: Nylander
Ana: Mctavish Mintyukov
Free agency-
Sign Laughton 3x 4.5
Sign Roslovic 2x5
And sign someone like a Lomberg
No those guys don’t replace Marner Nylander types but it’s about continuing to change this teams identity.
I think San Jose might be the only team willing to take that risk on Reilly and getting at late 2nd and a blue chip prospect I think is fair for both teams.
The Willy trade I’ve put out there before Leafs need to get a 2nd line centre so they can move JT to the wing Mctavish has kinda been overshadowed with the emergence of some of their younger guys I think he brings the puss and vinegar that you want.
And Mintyukov if that offensive dman that the Leafs need plus he’s got good size he’s not just a small speedy guy.
For free agents I think we can agree that Laughton is the player we thought he was but the coach refused to use him like he should’ve bring him back and put him where you we’re supposed to.
Roslovic we should have signed this year he’s not a world beater but he’s a responsible two way player that with put up 20 goals 50 points. And lastly Leafs should go and get that glue/ energy guy for the fourth line which is why I suggested Lomberg but it could be someone else preferably on the cheap.
There are more moves they need to make but these are what I think could/should happen.
1.) 16 Mar 2026 11:54:01
Goat2.0
It seems to me that I should go back to hoping the Leafs win. Why? Because then they disappoint me and lose. I’ve been recently hoping they lose and they win!
So I’m going to now hope they’ll win and disappoint me yet again!
I like the Rielly trade, Kasper Halttunen is a big skilled 21yo winger #34 in 2023.
I do like Laughton’s character but at $4.5m isn’t that too expensive for L4C?
For me I’d take AJ Greer before Lomberg but that’s definitely the type of player we need on L4. Greer is younger and has scored well this year.
Also I’m not keen on paying Roslovic $5m, though I do like his size, skill and speed.
If I spend $5m on a F I’d consider Mantha or Marchment.
Do we need both of them? Groulx, as big C with speed, a solid to great wrist shot, could be our L3C next year.
I’m certainly seeing the need to trade Nylander to get 2 or 3 players that can all contribute in the NHL next year. McTavish and Mintyukov are certainly good targets and save on cap to sign UFAs.
I like the direction and your thinking.
2.) 16 Mar 2026 12:25:07
Rielly won’t get that much. Take the second and run. Or ideally throw in Domi and get a second and a 4th.
3.) 16 Mar 2026 13:29:32
I think we could get more elsewhere for Nylander. And in that trade we don't save money in cap. Willy has $11.5M. McTavich has $7M and Mintyukov is forecasted as a RFA to get between $5.75 to $6.5.
I would like to see a 1st or 2 2nds in there.
I like the Halttunen idea. He had good chemistry with Cowan in London. A young guns line of those two centred by Holinka would be a fun one to watch grow together.
4.) 16 Mar 2026 14:16:43
Bob1965
Which team do you target for the 2nd and 4th? Is it for 2026?
Since we’re giving up two NHL players, maybe we should ask also for a decent D+2 prospect. I think you’re underselling a bit, but it’s addition by subtraction.
Suffering
There are certainly lots of choices to get a great Nylander return.
If not the Ducks there’s SJS and the Kraken that I’d target. I’ll pass SJS for now since I just traded Rielly to them for Halttunen.
In Seattle they have a bevy of talent. As you know I’m focused on good talent already drafted to have a shorter turnaround. Do you think I’m too greedy if I ask for Shane Wright to stick in L3C now, plus 3 of 4 of the following: Carson Rehkopf, Julius Miettinen, Lukas Dragicevic and Blake Fiddler.
Lol okay 2 of the 3 then!
5.) 16 Mar 2026 15:36:18
@Randy As I mentioned for Laughton if they bring him back it can’t be for fourth line duties if that’s what they are thinking then don’t bother. As for Roslovic, maybe 5 mil is rich, but that’s what I think he’s worth at the top end. Mantha has had a great year; I see him staying in Pittsburg and Marchment already expressed that he didn’t want to come to the Leafs.
@sufferingsince I don’t think you can trade a guy like Nylander for futures. Also, he’s got to waive, so keep in mind he dictates where he goes. I think getting two young guys who are already NHL proven and have been solid is what you get back in a Nylander deal. No way you get both players plus high end picks. Willy’s good but he’s not Quinn Hughes.
6.) 16 Mar 2026 16:48:49
At Goat2.0, I only mention either futures or extra with Willy because if we are trading him we need to either get his production at least back if it is a retool. If it's a rebuid we need to get as many prospects and picks as we can. I also know he has to waive if he is to be traded.
I am also one of the few on here who would rather keep him in either scenario. He is not slowing down but Matthews is. I have said it before and will say it again. Willy's contract in 2 years in this league of salary explosion will look like a bargain.
7.) 17 Mar 2026 00:55:33
@sufferingsince
It’s harder to replace top-end centres. Yes, Matthews has slowed down, but with his two-way play I think there’s still the ability to win with him. Look at Barkov — he’s a Selke, 30-35 goal player with two cups, and Florida has depth under him. Love JT, but he’s too slow to be a top-6 centre.
8.) 17 Mar 2026 12:34:08
I hear you about Barkov and he is a good player. Thing is he earns about right where a Centre with those numbers should be. $10m. We are not paying Matthews $13m and change to put up those numbers. Plus the countdown is on with him only have 2 years on that contract and I guarantee he is not going to want to sign for a pay cut.
I feel once he is healthy from the injury we look hard at a deal with another team for him.
9.) 17 Mar 2026 12:51:20
Plus don't forget that Nylander, if he had not missed the games when he was hurt, would be second in the league in scoring by right wingers behind Kucherov and slightly ahead of Pasternak. High production right wingers are also hard to replace. Mitch Marner, sadly, is tied for 4th in that right winger category and we still did not replace him.
10.) 17 Mar 2026 14:46:24
Suffering in what world is Mintyukov getting $5.75-$6.5m??? They have projected his next contract to be between $3.5-$5.5 depending on his stats this season and pp time. Look at his stats nothing warrants even the $3.5 let alone the numbers you're saying. He will get a bridge deal of maybe in the $3-4m aav over 2/3 years. That's what they r projecting. Only way he gets more is if he signs an offer sheet and I don't see teams giving up a 1st rd and 3rd pick to sign him and paying him $4.7-7m. I would take Mintyukov and not McTavish. Substitute McTavish with Carlsson or Gauthier. With the picks. My opinion
11.) 17 Mar 2026 20:35:53
If they could get Mintyukov for the upcoming season with a 1st and a 3rd from next year I could almost guarantee Calgary would jump all over Mintyukov. Vancouver as well. Although Calgary could do it and still have a 1st round left over.
05 Mar 2026 17:39:14
Good return for Roy, but if that’s the price for him, the three that were held out should fetch something similar? I think Toronto should take advantage of the Buffalo Parayko thing. Send Carlo for the same package; they will be scrambling.
1.) 05 Mar 2026 16:50:59
I’m with you on that idea Goat.
2.) 05 Mar 2026 17:16:34
Good idea, except Carlo could nix it as well if they are on his list 8 team list. Can hope, though.
3.) 05 Mar 2026 19:50:56
Yes I believe these 3 will fetch a 1st rd plus prospect on their own to different teams.
05 Mar 2026 02:03:11
My ideal deadline
Tor: Carlo Laughton
Det: Brandsegg-Nygard 1st 2026
Tor: OEL McMann
Ana: Mintyukov 1st 2026
Trade Reilly to the Sharks at the draft for picks.
So in terms the Leafs add 3 prospects and a young dman along with a bunch a cap space.
1.) 05 Mar 2026 01:56:26
Reilly won’t waive …. Buyout.
2.) 05 Mar 2026 09:08:16
Buyout is an option, but I think he will waive after the year he’s had in Toronto. There’s nothing that ties him to Toronto other than he’s played his whole career here. The only reason he never waived was because they were a lock to be a playoff team. Things have changed.
3.) 05 Mar 2026 14:23:52
I believe he will wave. He just doesn't want to move teams in season. He's as good as gone in the off season.
04 Mar 2026 09:52:10
Tor: Roy Akhyamov 2027 2nd
NJD: Mercer Seamus
Idk if the Devils like what I’m selling lol but my logic would be they get a cheaper two way centre that fits a third line role a bit better a goalie prospect and a 2nd next year. For the Leafs Mercer is an idea candidate, he’s young on a cost controlled deal, helps move JT to the wing and the Leafs also target a D prospect he’s undersized but he’s got good numbers other than that don’t know much about him.
Here’s my second line next year
Tavares Mercer Nylander
1.) 04 Mar 2026 12:57:42
I think a lot of this comes down to where they view Daws to Akhyamov. If they think Daws is the better goalie, then not as appealing. NJ has a massive problem with way too many guys giving the puck away way too much. Mercer is up there, but only 24. Roy is usually safer with the puck and that may appeal to NJ.
Seamus Casey, undersized as you say, but like most small guys can skate and move the puck.
Really good on the PP and could possibly QB Leafs PP eventually. Can he learn to overcome lack of size issue and use his skating and positioning to be effective at the NHL level? Is still up in the air imo. Likely an offensive D-man needing sheltered defensive minutes.
2.) 04 Mar 2026 14:30:44
Undersized is a big no for me on forwards right now. Is rather roll my punches on a draft pick.
3.) 04 Mar 2026 22:41:07
dude, this package doesnt get either of those guys by themselves.
03 Mar 2026 23:50:42
Tor: Roy Mcmann
Bos: our 1st Lohrei
One can dream right?
1.) 03 Mar 2026 23:54:45
Yes. Boston, as a good citizen of the NHL, should feel guilty about taking our first round pick and di the right thing and give it back and acknowledge whoever did that deal on Toronto's behalf was in all likelihood very inebriated at the time! LOL
Goat2.0's banter posts with other poster's replies to Goat2.0's banter posts
12 Mar 2026 21:26:15
I think it’s still early, but I am curious and want to start a conversation.
If the Leafs somehow win the lottery, who should they take at 1? I’m genuinely curious to know. Is it the lock McKenna, or do they go with world junior star Stenberg, or do they finally address the need and draft a stud D for the first time ever in the Matthews era? My personal take is I hope they do not win the lottery and land at 3-5 and take Reid or Verhoffe.
The blueline has never had a true star, not in a long time anyway, and it scares me to draft another small skilled winger and expect different results
1.) 12 Mar 2026 20:40:46
Of course we first need to be in total tank mode to be in bottom 5; lots of bad teams below us with the same idea!
So no chance if we are 27th or better.
2.) 12 Mar 2026 21:20:44
McKenna is probably a lock at 1 for me.
3.) 12 Mar 2026 22:41:30
@ RandySears We don't have to be in Tank Mode. Didn't you hear the news today? Ottawa got their first round pick back today because they appealed the Dadonov rulling and will pay the fine but get their pick back because Andlauer feels he was treated unfarily.
Well the Leafs have been given their first round pick back from Boston for this year because the league saw receipts from the liquor bill from the Skip The Dishes delivery bill for the Leaf Executive on trade deadline day from last year and agreed.....
no-one who had not been drinking heavily would have made that deal with Boston. :o)
4.) 12 Mar 2026 22:45:06
If picking a forward I would take Stenberg. I think McKenna would crack under the media in Toronto. If D man, take Verhoeff. Pretty level-headed guy with huge potential. He still views the play from his position as an ex-goalie would. He sees everything in front of him in a very quick but analytical way.
5.) 13 Mar 2026 08:04:01
@Randy you don’t have to finish last to get 1st overall. The Islanders moved up 6 spots last year to get Schafer…
6.) 13 Mar 2026 12:49:26
McKenna is very slick, but man it's hard for me not to consider a D that may end up a true 1st pair.
7.) 13 Mar 2026 17:15:41
Goat
You’re correct but you have to have a 1st in 2026 to win the lottery. Leafs do not have a first in 2026 unless they finish 28th or worse. It was traded to Boston
Rlf
An elite Dman is hard to argue with and I also have similar thoughts.
And considering Suffering’s comment about media pressure on McKenna it might also further support your position.
I do hope we have that problem tho’.
8.) 13 Mar 2026 19:21:12
@Randy
I'm not sure what you're saying about Toronto having to finish 28th or worse.
Do you mean points wise?
Who owns the 1st is determined after the draft lottery is complete, not before.
9.) 13 Mar 2026 23:37:57
The only way we are guaranteed a 1st round pick in this year's draft is we have to finish in the bottom 3 in the regular season. Even if we finished 4th or 5th worse. There is a chance that with the 2 lottery balls for 1st and 2nd, we could have 2 teams behind us push us to 6th or 7th. Bottom 3 are guaranteed to stay in the Top 5 draft spots. It would suck huge if we finished in the 4th spot and ended up 6th after the lottery balls.
So we need somehow to get into the worse 3 teams in regular season. It could happen. We need to tank and other teams behind us have players playing to prove their worth. Only because their teams were not stupid enough to be the only team in the NHL last year that traded a 1st round pick and only went Top 5 protected.
10.) 13 Mar 2026 23:46:21
Yes, we can go up maximum 10 spots and down maximum 2.
So yes, to guarantee a top 5 pick, we need to have the 3rd worst record. This will probably not happen though, so we will be relying on the lottery.
11.) 14 Mar 2026 12:48:50
Tags97
Your question prompted me to read the rules governing the NHL Draft Lottery and I need to thank you because You are correct!
I mistakenly have always thought, despite your position in the regular season, that you had to hold a R1 pick to qualify.
So if the Leafs finish no worse than 22nd position they still can win pick #1. They can also be drawn for 2nd pick as well if not drawn first.
Finishing in 17th to 21st they also qualify for the Lottery but can move up a maximum of 10 spots.
So a 20th place finish could get them at best a 3rd pick or worst a 4th pick if they get lucky and their number is drawn.
Our chances right now are 13.2% that we will win one of the two lottery draws.
Finishing 28th (top5 protected) ensures retention of the Boston pick and also increases our chances for #1 or #2 to 17.1%.
Also if this top5 position happens things get really crazy with TML having to satisfy conditions from other trades (Laughton trade with Philly) as well as the Bruin trade. Musical chairs for sure.
So thank you again; I now know enough to be dangerous!
12.) 14 Mar 2026 13:28:51
@Randy
You're welcome.
Go be dangerous ?
13.) 14 Mar 2026 22:24:00
Actually Randy, if we finish 28th in the regular season standings it does not guarantee the Boston pick back. If someone behind us lands a top 5 pick or 2 teams land top 5 picks, we are relegated out of the top 5 and lose that pick.
The only sure fire guarantee that we get the pick back is to finish 30th, 31st or 32nd in the regular season stats. The top 5 and top 10 picks are not guaranteed and settled until the lottery balls drop.
14.) 14 Mar 2026 22:27:45
If the season finished today we are tied for 8th worse record leading into todays games. That gives us a 6% chance winning the Number one spot.
15.) 15 Mar 2026 12:12:11
You are correct, I’m wrong, that a 28th place finish could bump us two places if we don’t win a lottery pick.
So a 30th place finish will guarantee a R1.
And of course %s change daily.
06 Mar 2026 21:55:20
Treliving has set the Leafs back a decade. What the hell was that, sat around for how long just to acquire picks for next year?! If he stays on with this team idk if I can watch. Just awful management, lost two first and two prospects last year for nothing!
1.) 06 Mar 2026 21:45:08
I think "set them back a decade" is a bit dramatic. Those returns are not great, but it's pretty much what I figured. He overpaid for a couple guys and now can't find someone to take them. It isn't like he traded Mathews, Knies and Cowan for a 7th.
2.) 06 Mar 2026 22:31:13
@LL Ok, I’ll play ball. How do they compete for a cup in the next 5 years? This team is t getting better through the draft or free agency. We already know they stink at trading, so in two years time if it’s anything like Marner, Matthews could walk for nothing. Guys who are half the player Laughton is got better returns… idk I don’t see how this team is t rebuilding by next year; that’s what I meant by set back a decade because that’s how long it took the first time.
And you watch, they will trade those picks for bottom six guys this summer
3.) 07 Mar 2026 00:03:21
@Goat I don't think they do. I would personally pull the chute and trade everybody for a full rebuild before it's too late. Maybe I didn't articulate it well enough.
Getting back 3 firsts instead of what they got doesn't change anything in my mind.
They weren't going to contend with 3 late firsts vs 1 first and other later picks. They still need to ask everybody on the team where they will accept a trade because the window is now closed.
4.) 07 Mar 2026 00:05:08
Agree Goat.
He has “cooked his goose” and Berube.
I’d gas them both NOW!
5.) 07 Mar 2026 10:26:54
@LL I agree, but I mean if he could've got 3 firsts they could've used that in a trade this summer to get back an impactful player, but all the top picks he got were for next year.
6.) 07 Mar 2026 21:12:19
@Goat The issue isn't which players, it's the core. It's been 10 years and nothing changed. That is a long, long time. I wouldn't say it matters at all. I'd move on from the core before it is too late and you lose them for nothing.
Only way I don't is if Mathews is willing to sign for 8 years at a decent number (No way that happens).
7.) 07 Mar 2026 21:39:30
@LeafsLife. You are right. The way the salary cap and hence salaries in general are soaring. Even with Matthews numbers going down he is still going to want his salary in 2 years to go up.
8.) 07 Mar 2026 22:57:11
@Suffering That's my issue. Mathews is probably going to command 17-18m on a max term deal. Open market. If he is willing to sign max term at say, 14 I'd say ok, quick retool. Otherwise, this is not working. Just move him.
9.) 08 Mar 2026 22:31:23
LL
I think $17m x 8yrs for Matthews is not at all realistic nor is $14 after this season and last.
But if you’re right, a big Yes from me on a trade this summer.
10.) 09 Mar 2026 21:00:38
@ goat. Yes they can turn it around quicker. They need to clean house in Management and coaching staff. Then Maximize their prospects and draft picks with a astute GM not the current one. Look at the Anaheim model. 4 years ago they had a record of 23-47-12 and look at that organization now. That "Little ball of hate" Pat Verbeek has done a great Job. When they hired Greg Cronin to coach for 3 years, I think the plan was to have a University guy coach during that path of players coming and going, buch the way it is in University.
He knew how to relate and teach but knew in the long run when they were ready he would not be the coach that took them to the next level. Now Joel Quenneville is at the Helm. That is how a rebuild should be done. Perfect blueprint.
26 Feb 2026 03:44:24
Glad to see the leafs of old back lol how depressing… same team same issues they stink defensively and their forward line are equally awful the worse part is they will sell and still manage to screw that up. Send Cowan down before you ruin the player and yea just have no faith in this team from top to bottom the guys we have relied on haven’t been there all year McCabe is turning into Brodie 2.0 Laughton who we paid so much for is being buried on the fourth line same with knies playing 3rd line minutes I’m not saying they have been great but they are better options higher in the lineup than they currently have.
1.) 26 Feb 2026 11:36:47
I think we have had enough indications this year that it’s time for a rebuild. Move out anyone and everyone except Cowan and Danford. This team has absolutely no heart, no grit, drive or unity at all. Starting getting your best packages together for everyone. Domi looked god awful. I’ve defended him in the past but I can’t defend that anymore. He looks scared out there.
Trade: Matthews, Nylander, Reilly, OEL, Tanev, Benoit, Domi, McMann (because it’s a rebuild), Laughton, Roy, Lorentz, Jarnkrok, Maccelli and Stolarz. Start building around Knies, Cowan, Robertson, Danford, Woll and Hildeby.
Keep JT, Joshua, Carlo, Stetcher for some veteran presence. Ffs. This has to be the most frustrating Leafs team I’ve ever seen.
Back when it was Sundins era, there was no skill on that team but lots of heart and they made a couple good playoff runs with Tucker, Corson, Domi and so on. But….. this team has the skill level but no heart. I’d rather watch a team with no skill and all heart because some of these games this year have been the most boring games I’ve seen in my life.
2.) 26 Feb 2026 12:39:13
Clarky, you had me until your last paragraph.
3.) 26 Feb 2026 13:20:55
Yes guys I think the writing is on the wall. Everyone is hoping for miracles but I think the rebuild is soon upon us. The team if we are looking at a huge return for Matthaws and maybe another player for good young prospects and picks is Seattle. The are loaded with both in their organization. Of all the tax free state teams in the NHL going into next season they have the 2nd most available salary cap. And.... have 21 of 23 players under contract.
That obviously would change depending who is traded or signed in free agency. It is a team many have acknowledged for a while has a very deep prospect pool, but many have ruled them out for a Matthews or a Nylander if they would not waive their no-trade. I think Matthews might given their future depth compared to the Leafs depth in the organization and.... he would get to take home a extra $1.5 million a year with no state tax. Nashville has a couple million more in Salary cap for tax free state, but they only have 14 of 23 signed and that kind of takes them out of the running.
All the other Tax Free teams have dropped down to the lower echelon for Salary Cap and prospects so it kind of changes the plateau a lot for big name players wanting to go to Dallas, Tampa, Florida and Vegas. As they have all have gone all in for years and now they will be handcuffed for a while and looking themselves to try and trade off the odd big name and contract in the next year or 2. Case in Point... Dallas and the Jason Robertson situation.
If they sign him they need to move someone else. If they don't I think someone will offer him a big number as a RFA and suck up giving up the required compensation draft picks. There are 27 teams that meet the requirement of giving up 4 1st round picks in the next 5 years that are their own original picks. If the offer him more than $11,700.193 and the Leafs aren't one of them. In fact as the tiers go down the only RFA category we are in is the 6th and 7th tier which are league minimum to $2.3 million. Sad really. Nothing in the Cupboard for our own picks to be able to explore that area.
4.) 26 Feb 2026 15:00:12
The decline of some players has been so big, how could one predict that. Especially the D. Rielly, as we have all said, has been awful, but how about McCabe and Benoit. As I said in the past - who stole McCabe's hockey brain? Who took Benoit's over the top physicality that made him useful?
This team is defeated from the guys that have been here for a while. They simply look and act defeated.
We aren't going to like this, but I think we are looking at them making whatever tweaks they can and running back most of it. Main reason, it's too hard to rebuild without top 5 draft picks.
Pending UFA's will likely be moved for assets. They likely try and move Rielly at some point (maybe summer). Maybe a goalie if they think they can get a good return and believe Hildeby is ready.
If they are keeping Matthews and Nylander, which I think they will unless they ask for a trade, how do you really rebuild? They will try and retool around them and hope next season guys that struggled this season, bounce back next season.
I expect some change for sure, including a new coach next season, but I would be surprised at a complete selloff.
5.) 26 Feb 2026 16:26:58
@RLF, I think you tell Matthews and Nylander that they are starting a rebuild and ask if they would like to be apart of it. With both of them being in their prime, I’d bet almost 100% that they would both want to move on even if they only give a 3-5 team trade window.
@Randy what in the last paragraph caught you in the feels? Talking about the early 2000’s teams?
6.) 26 Feb 2026 16:33:34
Clarky, that still doesn't solve getting top 5 draft picks as any 1sts acquired aren't likely going to be top picks. Think outside the top 10 likely.
7.) 26 Feb 2026 17:09:40
@RLF Clarky has enough savvy to know the possible teams that would take a Nylander or a Matthews would not have Top 10 picks but would have some multiple !st round picks that could be packaged to trade up quite a bit higher. Not to mention that part of any package for either of those is going to involve a fairly recent high first round pick prospect coming back in any package. Like a Berkly Catton, or a Iginla or a Dickinson or Misa or a Sennecke. I keep hearing that buzz that the Islanders are still looking at packaging their 2 first rounders and Aitcheson to try and grab the first overall pick to whoever wins the Lottery.
They are not interested in McKenna but want Stenberg who they want to pair up with his WJC temmate Eklund who they drafted in the 1st round last year. Both are playing the Swedish Hockey League (Men's not Juniors). That's how you try and work those mid to late first round picks to take a shot up the ladder.
8.) 26 Feb 2026 17:57:25
S1967. Thanks for explaining Clarky's savvy. He and I have had enough conversations over the years that I think we understand each other and respect each other's knowledge very well.
As for what you said about packaging later 1sts acquired to get a top pick, when was the last time a team was able to trade 1st round picks outside the top 10 etc. for a top 5 pick? Has only happened once in the salary cap era. That was for the #7 pick +.
Top 5's are typically your superstars and are rarely traded. Hoping to do that to get a top/"generational" talent is slim. I'm sure Clarky knows that as well (I might as well speak for him too:).
You can probably get a Catton or Iginla or Misa with a good +/+'s.
What kind of + do you think you get if Sennecke or Dickinson are involved? Sennecke is already almost a point per game player at 20. Dickinson looks like he will be a sure thing 1st pair D and only 19.
Let's say it is
Nylander for Sennecke (what is the + or +'s?)
Matthews for Dickinson (what is the + or +'s?)
Let's also remember that when Matthews, Nylander, Marner were all young like these guys mentioned, most thought it's the best chance for a Cup. Didn't work out so well. No guarantee they are any closer to a Cup if they tear it down and start over. Not that I am against tearing it down.
9.) 26 Feb 2026 19:54:16
Thanks for the great response RLF. Yes, to move up in the draft is hard to get that generational talent. That's why to get that top overall pried loose it would take a couple mid round firsts and a prospect who is also a first. Hence the Islander thought process. Aicheson was a first. If the Leafs were to be in the same position say in the 2027 draft, it would take 2 firsts and possibly Ben Danford to get either the number one or number two pick. This year if the Islanders offered that package to Vancouver I could see them being very happy to get a cornerstone future defenceman to pair up with Zeev Buim and 2 first rounders in the middle of the pack. I am not sure if Vancouver would pick McKenna anyway with the amount of pressure to perform right away he being a Western boy. .
St. Louis as well would welcome that deal. It would allow them to keep Robert Thomas and Kyrou and again stock the cupboards and have Aitcheson to anchor their future defense, allowing them to deal Parayko for more assets to rebuild as well.
As far as the Nylander for Sennecke, it's been mentioned many times about Luneau and Colangelo so we ask for them and also a 1st.
I can see Luneau with the Leafs sooner than Colangelo but who knows. Then we see what counter offer they come back with.
If Matthews was to go to San Jose I would add Hildeby to the mix and ask for Dickenson, Misa, a 1st and Josh Ravensbergen.
If Matthews was to go to Seattle we package in Brandon Carlo. Seattle has ton's of cap room next year and would appeal to Matthews and Carlo on the tax free state front. We then get greedy (Why not ? All they can do is say no and renogotiate.) and we ask for Berkly Catton (Has to be part of the deal) and either Jake O'Brien or Nathan Villeneuve (Whichever one they will part with would be fine) and Tyson Jugnauth as well as Eduard Sale and a 1st round pick.
The Nylander one as well as either of the Matthews package trades would really be good Steps to a full rebuild with some exciting hockey to watch. Berkly Catton with Knies and Sennecke would be a line that would cause fits to other teams. Lots of other moves would have to be done, but also in the wings for young players in that rebuild are Cowan of course, Danford,Chadwick, and Holinka.
10.) 26 Feb 2026 23:51:21
That's all good, but it is also massive speculation. There is no proof that Van accepts that Isle offer. History would suggest they won't, which puts all the rest in question.
Those are large hauls for Matthews and Nylander and since they control their destiny, a large haul like those are unlikely.
I'd be thrilled at those returns though, but I also realize that there are no guarantees that certain lines will give other teams fits etc.
11.) 27 Feb 2026 00:27:19
Large hauls to a point. Large hauls if everyone of those players coming back pans out. So they are more realistic asks when you are asking for those players on Speculation the will all make it to the NHL with impact. Other than Sennecke maybe. But with Matthews, Carlo, Nylander and to a lesser degree Hildeby you know what you are getting and two are legimate Stars in the league. As far as both of them controlling where they go.
That comes down to who also can afford them and what does the future look like in that team's organization. Matthews is the one that is the player who could have the Leafs over a barrel sooner than later if it isn't addressed soon. Nylander we have tied up for a lot longer term.
What teams RFL would you think either of the two players would waive the no trade to go to?
12.) 27 Feb 2026 18:02:31
S1967
Anything any of us figure on possible destinations is obviously all speculation. I don't know. I have always thought Willy would love the California seen. Just seems like it suits him. Anaheim probably has the most need and the assets Leafs would want.
As for Matthews. That's even tougher. I would assume an American team. One team I don't think many would consider and could be a darkhorse is New Jersey. He would get to play with the Hughes brothers. Hischier only has partial trade protection and Mercer has none. Could a deal be done around Matthews for Hischier, Mercer +? Cap would be close.
13.) 27 Feb 2026 18:47:37
Yeah, I am right with you. I have thought if Nylander went, it would be San Jose or Anaheim he would have no issues with. He would fit into the West Coast life quite well. Matthews would love playing with the Hughes, but off course New Jersey wants to find a way to pry Quinn loose from Minnesota to play there with his brothers so that is a bit of a snag.
Even if they didn't, the salary cap thing in Jersey is a bit of a issue. 3rd lowest available for next year when I checked a few weeks ago. Granted they do have 20 out of 23 under contract for next year but really not much to work with at all for cap money.
14.) 01 Mar 2026 16:02:29
Clarky, a very long thread so hoping you still see this.
It was perhaps the second last paragraph.
I had agreed, in my evaluation, with pretty well everything until you wrote to keep Stecher and Joshua.
I’m personally not interested in either.
JT and perhaps Carlo are sufficient for veteran presence but you can also acquire that through UFA signings.
24 Feb 2026 20:24:12
Sam girard went for kulak and a 2nd today am I missing something I know he’s undersized but still very mobile 4-5 defender does this drive up OEL’s price at all?
1.) 24 Feb 2026 23:45:12
maybe they're clearing cap for a trade, they save 2.25 mil i think. and absolutely that should increase OEL trade value, i think he should 100 percent go for first and a prospect.
2.) 25 Feb 2026 03:55:35
@Goat2.0
You got the trade details wrong.
It's Girard, plus a 2nd
For
Kulak
I think Dubas did well here and Colorado is definitely opening up some cap space for a bigger move.
3.) 25 Feb 2026 10:23:27
It was the Opposite. Kulak went to Colorado and Girard and a 2nd in 2028 came back to Pittsburgh. Kulak is older and had a lower salary but was going to be a UFA and probably would get about the same as what Girard is earning once he gets offers. So in return for this current season of taking on Girards higher salary the Penguins got Colorado to toss in the 2nd round pick. Win/ win for both teams. Dubas as much as leafs fans hate to hear it is a genius. He got rid of Jarry to get Kulak and Skinner and a 2nd. Now after all is said and done he traded Jarry and ended up with Girard, Stu Skinner, and 2 seconds . Brilliant.
4.) 25 Feb 2026 10:25:22
Yes I know which makes it crazier for Colorado I don’t really see who is a big fish that’s available i think the size thing is a factor.
5.) 25 Feb 2026 17:46:06
Kulak has been playing fairly well for Pitt. Maybe Colorado wanted to clear some cap and get a different type of D back.
05 Feb 2026 14:47:35
Something I hope the leafs keep in mind is who they are trading with. What I mean by that is for example if they are trading bobby I’d rather move him to a bubble team who’s gonna give that first then say a team like Edmonton.
Why’s that? A team like Edmonton doesn’t have the first this year and even if they did they get you a pick that’s 25-32 rather than a team like buffalo or Utah who are bubble teams are most likely going out in round 1 so that pick is 17-25.
Is that a strategy or just nonsense?
1.) 05 Feb 2026 21:02:55
It’s definitely a strategy to consider who you target for a trade.
Trading “in division” can be problematic for example.
And choosing a team that has a 1st is a good strategy and not nonsense.
Having said that I still would consider an Oiler trade.
Howard was a 1st (albeit 31st pick) but he’s in a D+ 2 or 3 years so we have a better idea of whether he can be a top6. But I would want a 2nd in 2026 with Howard, something the Oilers do have.
17 Mar 2026 01:16:05
@leafsgm Gotcha. Honestly, Dallas would make sense Robertson for Willy but I don’t think it helps either team.
17 Mar 2026 00:55:33
@sufferingsince
It’s harder to replace top-end centres. Yes, Matthews has slowed down, but with his two-way play I think there’s still the ability to win with him. Look at Barkov — he’s a Selke, 30-35 goal player with two cups, and Florida has depth under him. Love JT, but he’s too slow to be a top-6 centre.
17 Mar 2026 00:51:36
You’re forgetting Nylander has a no move. He’s not going to Vancouver.
16 Mar 2026 15:36:18
@Randy As I mentioned for Laughton if they bring him back it can’t be for fourth line duties if that’s what they are thinking then don’t bother. As for Roslovic, maybe 5 mil is rich, but that’s what I think he’s worth at the top end. Mantha has had a great year; I see him staying in Pittsburg and Marchment already expressed that he didn’t want to come to the Leafs.
@sufferingsince I don’t think you can trade a guy like Nylander for futures. Also, he’s got to waive, so keep in mind he dictates where he goes. I think getting two young guys who are already NHL proven and have been solid is what you get back in a Nylander deal. No way you get both players plus high end picks. Willy’s good but he’s not Quinn Hughes.
11 Mar 2026 15:15:18
Here’s why I shoot down this Anaheim trade. Why would the Ducks move cost-controlled young guys currently outplaying Matthews for a quick go-for-it move? Matthews is 28 with only two more years.
The Ducks with their young core could create a dynasty. It’s a great trade for Toronto, but I just don’t see the Ducks selling Senneke after they took so much crap for picking him 3rd overall.
17 Mar 2026 01:10:27
@clarky The theme with the guys you mentioned is this: they always show up when it doesn’t matter … Love Robertson, kid works hard but when’s the last time he scored a goal where it wasn’t a 5-2 game? Maccelli same thing imo. He was a “guy” most of the year but now when the games don’t matter he’s gonna show up to pad his stats.
Domi is another one; he’s got no role on this team, hasn’t had one since he came to the Leafs. We need speed and skill but the Leafs need guys who contribute on a regular basis.
17 Mar 2026 01:05:19
@Randy What about just using the guys you drafted and developed… isn’t this the reason why the Leafs always end up with bad contracts? Let’s use Quillan, Haymes, Valis, etc.
17 Mar 2026 01:01:15
@RLF I think Laughton wasn’t used well in this lineup. Roy was solid for us but was streaky, and McMann same thing. When we look back at this year's roster, I think it will come down to the fact that this team wasn’t built to be successful in a Berube system.
He wanted to play dump and chase hockey, but the problem is they were and still are too slow of a team… I also think you can chalk it up to the fact that our defence as a whole has been awful.
13 Mar 2026 08:04:01
@Randy you don’t have to finish last to get 1st overall. The Islanders moved up 6 spots last year to get Schafer…
13 Mar 2026 08:00:53
No, but do you believe that the next two years will yield top 10 picks?