Leafs trade defenseman to Vancouver

The Canucks had a strong interest in Dermott for quite some time, and it was even reported that Dermott may have requested a trade earlier this season when he found himself slipping down the Leafs' depth chart thanks to the development of youngsters Rasmus Sandin and Timothy Liljegren.

Dermott, 25, has 1 year remaining on his current deal and will carry a $1.5M cap hit next season. The Newmarket, Ontario native saw the writing on the wall after Saturday's game against the Nashville Predators. His post game comments reflected someone who knew that his time was up in Toronto. Hopefully the opportunity that he receives in Vancouver will be the one he's looking for.

Dermott was drafted by the Leafs in the 2nd round back in 2015 (34th overall) and has appeared in 251 career NHL games, racking up 12 goals and 52 points as a Leaf.

Per Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, the Canucks will be sending a third round pick back to the Leafs in the deal.

**Leafs confirm a 2022 3rd rounder (WPG) as the return for Dermott**