Maple Leafs Pursue Islanders' Mayfield, Evaluate Trades

The Toronto Maple Leafs are actively seeking defensive reinforcements ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline, with a focus on New York Islanders' Scott Mayfield and a potential re-acquisition of Tyson Barrie from the Calgary Flames. Analyst Nick Kypreos highlighted Mayfield's fit for the Leafs, noting his size and defensive capabilities, although his no-trade clause and contract through 2030 present challenges. Meanwhile, Barrie could provide offensive support after being a healthy scratch in Calgary, with a proposed trade involving Ryan Reaves to free up cap space. Additionally, some analysts suggest that trading star defenseman Morgan Rielly could be a strategic move to improve the team's overall defensive structure and salary cap flexibility. Rielly's inconsistent performance on the power play and high salary have raised questions about his fit on a Stanley Cup contender. As the trade deadline approaches, the Leafs' decisions will significantly impact their playoff aspirations.