The Toronto Maple Leafs might have found their missing piece, and it’s someone who’s already got family ties to the team.
Brandon Tanev has caught the Leafs’ eye – and the feeling’s mutual, according to NHL insider Pierre LeBrun.
It’s easy to see why Toronto’s interested. Tanev’s put up 17 points this season (9 goals, 8 assists) while throwing 117 hits and blocking 91 shots. Pretty impressive for a guy who only plays about 14 minutes per game.
The best part? He’d get to play alongside his brother Chris, who’s been a rock for Toronto’s defense this year.
There’s something special about the idea of playing for your hometown team with your brother. That’s got to count for something in negotiations.
Brandon’s exactly what the Leafs need right now – someone who can boost their third line’s scoring while playing solid defense. He’s one of the NHL’s better defensive forwards, bringing the kind of grit that coaches love.
The price tag wouldn’t break the bank either. The Leafs would probably need to give up a couple of draft picks and maybe a prospect like Nikita Grebenkin. That’s a lot cheaper than some other options on the market, like Brayden Schenn.
His $3.5 million salary is pretty reasonable too, especially with the salary cap going up. If he re-signs for a similar amount, it could be a steal.
The Leafs are in an interesting spot right now. They don’t have the premium trade assets that teams like Vegas, Florida, Tampa, and Winnipeg can offer. That’s why targeting someone like Tanev makes so much sense.
The Eastern Conference isn’t as tough as it’s been in recent years. That means there’s a real opportunity for Toronto to make some noise in the playoffs.
GM Brad Treliving doesn’t have much time left before the trade deadline, but having a player who actually wants to come to Toronto could make things a lot easier. Tanev might just be the first of several moves the Leafs make to gear up for a playoff run.
