TSN Analysis: Join Pierre LeBrun, Mike Johnson, and Ryan Rishaug as they delve into the critical decisions facing Toronto Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving as the trade deadline approaches. Their insights reveal the intricate dynamics at play for the team.

NHLRumors.com transcription

Rishaug: “Focusing on the Toronto situation, Pierre, if I were to ask you for a prediction on what assets Brad Treliving will hold by the time the trade deadline passes, what are your thoughts?”

LeBrun: “There are several factors to consider here, and I’ll be brief. I genuinely believe that the upcoming stretch of games post-All-Star break will significantly influence Treliving’s strategy to enhance the team. He’s eager to assess the squad’s performance because they have been…”

Johnson: “Are you suggesting it’s about performing well or poorly?”

LeBrun: “Exactly. I mean…”

Johnson: “If they struggle, he might feel the urgency to add players because the team isn’t competitive, but if they excel, he’ll think the same.”

LeBrun: “No, I believe if they underperform, he might have to hold onto his valuable assets.”

Johnson: “Understood, a more cautious approach.”

LeBrun: “Keep in mind, the Leafs have traded significant assets in recent years in attempts to go all-in, so I believe the Leafs need to consider adding another first-round pick to remain competitive. That’s essential for securing tangible improvements.”

The Leafs currently lack a second-round pick for the next three years, having traded away their last three. I’ve mentioned before that to engage in discussions about Chris Tanev, for instance, the asking price is a second-round pick and another asset, which is what we’re hearing throughout the league. The Leafs simply don’t possess that capital.

However, the Leafs can explore alternative avenues for acquiring talent. It’s evident that Brad Treliving has a strong affinity for Chris Tanev, having previously worked with him in Calgary. Adding Tanev would significantly bolster the Leafs’ defensive lineup.

That said, it’s important to note that I believe the Flames have communicated to Toronto that without a second-round pick, if they want Tanev, it will require their first-round pick. That’s a hefty price to pay. But then again, Winnipeg recently paid a first for Sean Monahan, so perhaps this reflects the current market dynamics as we approach the deadline.

If the Leafs cannot secure Tanev and still wish to strengthen their defensive line, there are other options like (Ilya) Lyubushkin, Sean Walker, or (Nick) Seeler. It’s clear they are focused on enhancing their blue line without question.”

Johnson: “Indeed, the gap left by (John) Klingberg is evident, and we know they require reinforcement there. However, if we analyze the Leafs’ performance over the past 25 games, their primary issue is that scoring has predominantly come from their star players.”

LeBrun: “Exactly.”

Johnson: “Everyone emphasizes the need for defensive upgrades, which I understand, but the reality is that bringing in Chris Tanev won’t directly solve their scoring issues. They need offensive contributions, especially since Tyler Bertuzzi has only one goal in 28 games, Max Domi has scored twice in 22 games, and Matthew Knies hasn’t found the net in 16 games (these statistics are prior to the weekend). This situation highlights the struggles of players who were expected to contribute significantly.”

Unless these offensive issues are addressed, their efforts to strengthen the defense will be in vain. The Leafs have faced ongoing challenges in generating offense over the years, and typically, they don’t make significant moves to rectify this. I believe their primary goal should be to secure offensive talent as well.”

LeBrun: “Perhaps they might aim for a combination of both improvements, which wouldn’t surprise me. However, returning to the topic of their assets, I recently noticed in Scott Wheeler’s organizational rankings that the Leafs are positioned 28th in terms of prospect depth.”

It’s quite evident that they have gone all-in several times under the previous GM, which has left them in a challenging position.”

Johnson: “But I’m asserting, Pierre, that simply acquiring a defenseman won’t resolve all of Toronto’s issues.”

LeBrun: “Absolutely. In my opinion, they need to acquire two defensemen and a top-nine forward. But how can they achieve that while sitting in a wildcard position? That’s the million-dollar question.”

Johnson: “Exactly, it seems unlikely.”