On Saturday, it was reported that the Leafs had declined an offer from the Chicago Blackhawks that would have landed them forward Brandon Hagel and goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury from the Chicago Blackhawks for a package that included goaltender Petr Mrazek, top prospect Matthew Knies and multiple first round picks.
Dubas really does not want to move top prospects and first round picks for rentals, and he has communicated as much publicly, which makes Sunday's report all the more curious.
According to The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta, aside from Matthew Knies, the Leafs have been approached my multiple teams regarding prospects Nick Abruzzese, Topi Niemela and Nick Robertson. Knowing that the Leafs aren't interested in moving these players for rentals, I'm curious to know what the offers were.
Could we see a situation over the next 24 hours where the Leafs trade one or more of these prospects in order to land some significant pieces with term ahead of the deadline to help them in their upcoming playoff run in the ultra-competitive Atlantic Division?
With each of their divisional rivals making at least one significant deadline addition, the Leafs are now under the gun to get something done to improve their team. Otherwise, they'll run the risk of being outclassed by superior teams come playoff time.
POLL | ||
20 MARS | 250 ANSWERS Report: Multiple teams are pressing the Leafs on 3 of their top prospects Will the Leafs move one of their top prospects for a major piece at the deadline? | ||
Definitely | 59 | 23.6 % |
Not a chance | 92 | 36.8 % |
They will if they want to contend | 99 | 39.6 % |
List of polls |