Insider reveals that the Leafs have called on two of the top defensemen available in the trade market

Per The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta, his sources have informed him that the Leafs have checked in on two of the top defensemen believed to be available in the trade market. Pagnotta has linked the Leafs to both Travis Sanheim and Noah Hanifin.

Hanifin had recently informed the Flames that he does not plan to re-sign in Calgary and with just 1 year remaining on his deal, which carries a $4.95M cap hit, the Flames may opt to deal the 26-year-old now to maximize his value rather than waiting for it to diminish and trading him at the trade deadline.

Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Flyers have triggered a full tear-down and rebuild, with prospect Cutter Gauthier appearing to be the only true untouchable, meaning that Sanheim is among those who could see himself moved this summer, before his 8-year, $50M contract kicks in. Sanheim does not currently have any trade protection, but will gain a full no-trade clause on July 1st, which reverts to a modified no-trade clause in the last 4 years of the deal. He's inked through 2030-31 at a $6.25M cap hit.

Sanheim tallied 7 goals and 23 points in 81 games last season. Meanwhile, Hanifin racked up 7 goals and 38 points in the same number of games.