Maple Leafs Explore Multiple Trades to Upgrade Top-Six Forward and Defense

The Toronto Maple Leafs are actively exploring trades and roster moves to address key lineup gaps after trading Mitch Marner to the Vegas Golden Knights, aiming to bolster their top-six forward group and defense. Potential trade scenarios include acquiring Nazem Kadri from the Calgary Flames in exchange for Morgan Rielly, a swap that fits well within the salary cap structure and could reunite Kadri with the Leafs. Additionally, the Leafs may trade prized prospect Easton Cowan to the Pittsburgh Penguins for winger Bryan Rust, who can fill Marner's former top-line role and offers versatility on the wing. Defense is another area of focus, with the Leafs reportedly interested in veteran Erik Karlsson from the Penguins, potentially involving Brandon Carlo in a trade to balance cap space and roster needs. To create financial flexibility for these acquisitions, the Leafs might move veterans like Max Domi, whose contract and role may not align with the team's future plans despite his offensive contributions. Overall, the Leafs are balancing their competitive window by seeking experienced players who can immediately contribute, while managing salary cap constraints and roster composition.