The Maple Leafs are eyeing two big-name players as the NHL trade deadline approaches, but they won’t come cheap.
Insider Elliotte Friedman reports that both Brayden Schenn and Brock Nelson are available – if teams are willing to pay up.
The Blues aren’t being subtle about Schenn. GM Doug Armstrong’s message is pretty clear: bring a huge offer, or don’t bother calling. Schenn, who just played his 1,000th NHL game on Thursday, would be a major get for any contender.
Meanwhile, Nelson’s situation with the Islanders is more mysterious. GM Lou Lamoriello is keeping things quiet, in his typical style. Teams are basically waiting for their chance to make an offer.
For Leafs GM Brad Treliving, it’s crunch time. He’s got some tough choices ahead.
Does he go all-in for a player like Schenn or Nelson? Or does he play it safer with a couple of smaller moves to protect the team’s future?
The clock is ticking. Toronto’s front office is definitely thinking hard about Schenn, according to Friedman, but they’re not alone in showing interest.
Whatever happens, one thing’s clear – if the Leafs want to land either of these veterans, they’ll need to open up their wallet. Big time.
