In a recent analysis by Jonas Siegel of The Athletic, the Toronto Maple Leafs face the challenge of trying to improve their roster without giving up key pieces. Staring down a number of intriguing trade prospects, GM Brad Treliving will attempt to make moves ahead of this season’s NHL Trade Deadline. But, opposing teams aren’t about to make things easy. In fact, it is believed other clubs will focus on players the Maple Leafs don’t want to move.

Matthew Knies is quickly emerging as a desirable target. However, Siegel affirms the Leafs’ reluctance to part ways with Knies due to his significant impact on the present and future. Toronto doesn’t want to part with current Team Canada members Fraser Minten or Easton Cowan either.

Naturally, with Knies off the table, attention shifts to the Maple Leafs’ first-round pick, a historically tradable asset. Siegel explores the team’s history of exchanging picks, posing the question of whether surrendering another top pick, considering a recent one in 2025, is a judicious move.

Beyond Knies and the draft pick, Siegel examines potential trade assets. Backup goaltender Dennis Hildeby enters the conversation, contingent on the development of the Leafs’ goalie prospects. Fraser Minten and Easton Cowan, despite strong showings in training camp, are considered less likely trade candidates due to their positive impact and potential.

What Are the Maple Leafs Willing to Trade?

Siegel suggests a strategic use of the Leafs’ three fifth-round picks as supplementary assets in larger trades, potentially facilitating salary retention deals. Finally, Nick Robertson emerges as a viable trade option, given his affordable current salary and the Leafs’ evaluation of his potential as a valuable middle-six forward. There is a lot to like about what Robertson can offer, but the Leafs will have to move something of value that other teams want.

As the trade landscape unfolds, the Maple Leafs will have to find a delicate balance between short-term gains and long-term stability. If Treliving gives up too much, they could be mortgaging their future in many ways. If they give up too little, the team might not acquire enough to push them over their playoff hurdles.

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