Photo credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
Steven Stamkos would be a great addition to the Maple Leafs not only now, but as they look for a deep playoff push, but only if they were able to save a bit of money.
Riding a hot streak that no one really anticipated, the Toronto Maple Leafs are going to be looked at as one of the teams who might be trying to go all-in when it comes to making a trade to give them a strong chance at not only making the playoffs; but succeeding.
While the news has died down regarding Stamkos, his name has popped up again as we inch closer to the trade deadline and with Nashville having a tough path to the playoffs, they could decide to sell.
Maple Leafs could trade for Steven Stamkos but only if he becomes cheaper
That’s great news for the Maple Leafs who would love to add some more firepower to a now very potent offense but they need to lower his cost.
That’s what Nick Kypreos believes when it comes to any team trying to acquire Stamkos, as they feel that his $8-million contract is way too high for a 35-year old on the downswing.
But if the cost is lowered, then a trade is certainly feasible:
It’s just too much for a team to take on and I’m not sure anyone would entertain the idea of acquiring Steven Stamkos unless his cap hit was reduced to $4-5 million.
Stamkos has really turned things around lately and has 30 points in 45 games (19 goals, 11 assists). He can still light the lamp and his playoff accomplishments speak for themselves.
But should Toronto trade for Stamkos?
But he’s also 35, much slower than he was, has injury concerns, and won’t be cheap unless the Predators retain salary. That’s going to raise his cost, and Toronto might need to sweeten to pot if Nashville wants a reset.
The Maple Leafs could trade one of their 2026 draft picks in order to accelerate the rebuild for Nashville, and they could send off expiring contracts like Bobby McMann or Matias Maccelli the other way.
Both would give GM Barry Trotz a much younger player with either a lot of speed and scoring (McMann) or speed and playmaking while also being a decade younger than Stamkos (Maccelli).
If Toronto can get even 40% retention, that would make Stamkos’ hit only $4.8-million, which would be covered by Maccelli, McMann, and a draft pick.
Whether or not the team should entertain trading away McMann or Maccelli is another story considering how good they have been over this hot streak, and fans aren’t going to be happy if another veteran for youth deal goes up in flames.
But you’re adding Steven Stamkos: Two-time Stanley Cup winner and someone with over 1,200 points in his career. If there’s anyone who can help the Maple Leafs get past their playoff demons it’s him.
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Steven Stamkos would be attractive to the Maple Leafs, but there’s a catch
Should the Maple Leafs trade for Steven Stamkos?
