Welcome to the THW Toronto Maple Leafs Substack newsletter, with all the latest from our team of Maple Leafs writers.
In today’s edition, the Maple Leafs are reportedly holding trade talks with the Calgary Flames and have identified their primary target. What will it take to land who they want? Would a William Nylander deal help or hurt the team? Finally, is the group finally standing up for each other?
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Insider Hints Flames Like Maple Leafs Prospect in Potential Deal
November 13, 2023 by Jim Parsons
The NHL trade winds are blowing, and the Calgary Flames and Toronto Maple Leafs seem to be in the midst of exploring potential player swaps. The focal point of recent discussions has been the Flames’ defenseman, Nikita Zadorov, who might be on the radar of the Maple Leafs. But, he’s not necessarily the only player the Maple Leafs would be interested in.
The question floating around now is who the Leafs might send back in any potential deal. It would have to be a money-in, money-out kind of swap, but the Flames would also need a player — likely a “can’t miss prospect” — they see growing with the franchise long-term.
Maple Leafs Player Told Flames’ Zadorov He’s What Team Needs
November 13, 2023 by Michael DeRosa
Following the Toronto Maple Leafs‘ whacky 5-4 shootout win over the Calgary Flames, big news came out of Calgary. After scoring a goal and making a big hit on Maple Leafs forward Tyler Bertuzzi, Flames defenceman Nikita Zadorov requested a trade from the club. This immediately grabbed the attention of Maple Leafs fans, as it was previously reported by Kevin Weekes that the Original Six club had already expressed interest in Zadorov before his trade request. With that, NHL insider Chris Johnston later reported that Zadorov would welcome a move to Toronto.
Yet, it appears that not only the Maple Leafs’ front office wants Zadorov to join the Blue and White after a recent report. Let’s dive into this now.
Maple Leafs’ Giordano & Domi Send Message About Team Unity
November 13, 2023 by The Old Prof
Professional hockey, at the NHL level, is a game where physicality, intense competition, and occasional on-ice altercations just come with the territory. There’s also an element of intimidation that seems present in the game itself.
In NHL hockey, when teammates stick up for each other, that action serves several crucial purposes. Here are six ways I believe that total team engagement in protecting each other as teammates makes a huge difference on the ice.
Maple Leafs Have Franchise Altering Trade Chip in Nylander
November 12, 2023 by Spencer Lazary
The Toronto Maple Leafs have been an offensive powerhouse in the NHL for the better part of six years. The core four of Auston Matthews, William Nylander, Mitch Marner, and John Tavares have all produced for the team to get them to the playoffs; however, once there, the team struggles defensively. Fast forward to this season, and the Maple Leafs are in the exact same situation: their stars are producing, and the team is sputtering defensively.
However, the team does have a fix, but it may not be the most popular one. Nylander is on an expiring contract and could be pricing himself out based on his offseason dominance.
More Talk Regarding the Maple Leafs:
* Maple Leafs’ Chances of Landing Flames’ Zadorov Have Increased
November 11, 2023 by Michael DeRosa
* 3 Takeaways From Maple Leafs’ Big 5-2 Win Over the Canucks
November 12, 2023 by Michael DeRosa